"Some of the newer Berthold City tracks are the best songs that I've ever written, and I'm really excited to share our new record with the world." That was Berthold City vocalist Andrew Kline last summer, just before the release of the Los Angeles band's sophomore album, Where Did We Go Wrong?
When I spoke with Andrew at that time, I already had been living with an advanced copy of the LP and knew he wasn't just hyping me. Produced by Nick Jett (Terror, Piece By Piece), Where Did We Go Wrong? finds the straight edge crew delivering dynamic arrangements packed with speedy riffing, big choruses, and emotionally-charged vocal parts.
From the first time I heard the album, I remember telling Andrew "X-Ray Eyes" was my favorite cut on it. I'm happy to say Berthold City just dropped a music video (directed by the band's bassist, John "Eightclip" Jenkins) for the song.
"You better believe these lyrics are personal," Andrew told me about his lyrics on the track. "This song goes out to everyone who thinks they can put on the right uniform or hang out with the cool crowd and believes that it will somehow make them a better person. We can see right through your bullshit and your fantasy. Ultimately, these lyrics are about betrayal and the finality of cutting someone that wronged you out of your life.
"The genesis of the song title goes back to the early '90s. An old friend of mine named Rey Oropeza, then of Social Justice and later of downset., once said to me 'call me X-Ray,' 'cause I see through the lies.' I kept this phrase in my vault over the years, and it popped in my head when I was brainstorming ideas for song titles and concepts. This song has been super fun to play live and definitely a high point in our set."
It's a testament to Berthold City's DIY roots that John always directs their video content, and their records come out through Andrew's label, WAR Records. "I think the DIY ethic is still such an important part of the underground scene.
"It's easy to delegate tasks to outsiders, labels, and agents, and I really don't fault bands that do, but it is very rewarding (as well as a great learning experience) to truly build something brick by brick! That being said, I could not do it without all of my band mates, friends, and everyone that has shown support over the years."
In terms of Berthold City's plans for the future, it sounds like the band isn't slowing down any time soon. "We are working on a few shows in California in early 2025, and we are in the process of booking a European tour with our friends in Risk It! at the end of February. We will be headlining Break Down the Walls fest in Moers, Germany in February as well playing alongside a bunch of cool bands like Existence, Force of Denial, Love Letter, Parasite, and more.
"We are definitely looking to get back to the East Coast in 2025 as well. There have been talks of some other cool international runs as well, so I am keeping my fingers crossed we can make it happen."
***
Where Did We Go Wrong? is available now on vinyl, CD, and digital via WAR Records.
Tagged: berthold city
