I previously covered Mugger around the time of their 2022 demo. If you missed that, the band comes out of Austin, Texas and play a no-bullshit strain of hardcore where songs get to the point swiftly, leaning into punk side of things all the way.
Mugger's latest release is called Get a Clue and its limited edition vinyl version has already sold out, but fret not because the songs are available to stream. And today, No Echo is helping spread the word about the band's new music video for one of the two songs on the 7", a ripper called "Find Out" that features guest vocals from none other than John Brannon of Negative Approach.
Vocalist Anna Troxell shared some insight into the collaboration. "[Mugger drummer] Patrick [Troxell] and John have been friends for years, and he noticed that Negative Approach had a day off in Austin on their tour with Circle Jerks last year. So, he asked if Easy Action [Brannon's other band] would like to play that night to which John replied, 'Hell yeah, man.'
"Mugger was added as the opener, and we became instant homies. When I wrote 'Find Out' a few months later, I immediately thought of adding John's vocals. I wasn't weary of asking him at all because all of the NA guys are so awesome and friendly. However, I was totally blown away and touched by how seriously he took it — even going into the studio and recording his takes to tape."
So, what is "Find Out" about anyway? "It was written about my experiences of feeling frustration of not always being perceived as a person deserving of power," Anna explained to No Echo. "My intention is to highlight that there is still a long way to go in terms of inclusivity in our little punk hardcore scene, and we need to always be aware of making room for everybody.
"Sometimes it feels like certain folks are 'allowed' into the scene as participants, but not creators. So, there's certainly an element of 'pissed off' here - so who else to ask to join me but the prince of being pissed off himself, Mr. Brannon?"
Get a Clue is being released by Quiet Panic, a label co-owned by a hardcore scene stalwart. "We are absolutely pleased as punch to be on the Quiet Panic roster, joined by many amazing bands," said Anna.
"It's an honor to work with Ryan [Hoffman] of Chain of Strength and his whole team at QP. Lots more to come!"
What else is cooking for Mugger in the coming months? Glad you asked! "We have a short tour in Florida coming up, playing The Fest in Gainesville on a stacked lineup with Touché Amoré, CIty of Caterpillar, Page.99, and many more.
"There will be lots of exciting news that week announced as well. Going forward, we have something cooking for the Pacific Northwest at the end of the year."
Get a Clue is available via Quiet Panic Records across digital streaming outlets (links are here).
Mugger on social media: Twitter | Instagram
Tagged: mugger, negative approach
