Melbourne-based metalcore band Windwaker has unleashed their latest single, closer, from the upcoming album smile, you’re on camera, which will release on October 23.
Three years ago I’d only heard of Windwaker in name, but after Sirens dropped and I saw them headline with Caskets, I became a mega fan. Since then, their 2024 album Hyperviolence has been in constant rotation (my 2024 AOTY), and I’ve attended every Melbourne gig – even travelling 50 minutes to watch them at the quickly-closed-down District 13 venue in Narre Warren. What a gig, man. So to say that I’m excited for a new Windwaker album is an understatement.
closer is the third single from the upcoming album, and it captures everything I love about the band’s music: electronics, heavy guitars, catchy choruses, big breakdowns and brutal growls.
Windwaker gives some backstory to the song’s meaning, explaining that “closer is an allegory for the struggles of being in a band dealing with rejection, self-doubt, and the resilience in spite of that to keep going with something you’ve given everything to. It’s a message for all to keep trying and strive further toward their goals.”
Speaking on the announcement of the new album, the band is promising a more “guitar-forward and gritty, analog-focused backdrop compared to its predecessor.”
“smile, you’re on camera ruminates on the weight of time and growth, struggles and sacrifice for the better life and authenticity in spite of a world full of superficial and sinister characters and bad actors. It’s a collection of catchy, energetic and heartfelt songs.
“The album is highly introspective and does not follow a linear narrative, instead presenting a series of personal reflections and snapshots that capture the emotional highs and lows of this period. It’s a celebration of how far the band has come and a candid look at the pressure of being seen, leaving listeners with a sense of both resolution and ongoing evolution.”
Pre-orders are open now for those wanting to get in early on smile, you’re on camera. Or you can pre-save it on your streaming platform of choice. Local pre-orders can be done at JB Hi-Fi for both vinyl and CD.
smile, you’re on camera Tracklist
- low
- closer
- click. (feat. RinRin)
- do or die
- dna
- burn
- victory lap
- lie to me
- wait for me
- loser (feat. Mikaila Delgado)
- overlord
- some days
