In the realm of heavy music, few acts command attention quite like Friendship Commanders. Hailing from Nashville, TN, this formidable duo consisting of songwriter, lyricist, guitarist, and vocalist Buick Audra, alongside the multitalented drummer and bassist, Jerry Roe has established themselves as a sonic force to be reckoned with. Their dynamic sound is characterized by heavy distorted guitars, thunderous drums, and an unrelenting energy that captivates audiences and leaves them craving more.
Friendship Commanders’ musical journey can be traced back to their 2016 album, Dave, which they engineered and produced themselves. This was followed by their 2018 release, Bill, recorded at Electrical Audio by the renowned Steve Albini. Their 2020 EP, Hold on to Yourself, delved into the complex themes of adulthood and surviving childhood abuse. Throughout the pandemic-ridden year of 2022, the band continued their sonic exploration with a collection of singles, culminating in the limited vinyl compilation EP, Release the Rest, all mixed by the talented Kurt Ballou.
However, it is their recent works that truly demonstrate the artistic prowess of Friendship Commanders. Their 2020 EP, High Sun, delved into the deeply personal topic of being an adult survivor of childhood abuse. This raw and emotive collection of songs touched the hearts of listeners and solidified the band’s reputation for unflinching honesty in their songwriting.
In 2022, Friendship Commanders kept their creative fire burning bright during the pandemic with the release of a limited vinyl compilation EP. This compilation, featuring singles released throughout the challenging times, served as a testament to their resilience and unyielding commitment to their craft. Mixed once again by the masterful Kurt Ballou, these tracks exuded a cathartic energy that resonated deeply with their audience.
Now, as anticipation mounts for their forthcoming album, MASS, Friendship Commanders continue to push boundaries and explore new sonic territories. Co-produced, engineered, and mixed by the talented Kurt Ballou at his GodCity studio in Salem, MA, MASS promises to be a concept record that delves into themes of memory, language, and the enigmatic state of Massachusetts. Accompanying the album is a memoir in essays by Buick Audra, adding a profound depth to the listening experience.
But let’s not overlook the EP that has ignited our excitement even further. Featuring standout tracks like “High Sun,” “Fail,” and “Blue,” Friendship Commanders unleash a torrent of hard-hitting rock that transports us back to the heyday of 1990s alternative music. With each distorted guitar riff and thunderous drumbeat, they summon the spirit of that era while infusing it with their own unique brand of intensity and passion.
“High Sun” leads the charge, crashing through the gates with a torrent of energy that never relents. The colossal guitar riffs intertwine with Buick Audra’s commanding vocals, creating an irresistible wall of sound. “Fail” showcases the band’s ability to balance aggression with melody, hooking listeners with its infectious chorus. And “Blue” is a cathartic anthem that reverberates with raw emotion, leaving an indelible mark on the listener’s soul.
Friendship Commanders’ latest EP is a testament to their growth as songwriters and their ability to craft hard-hitting rock music that resonates with authenticity and power. With influences from the 1990s rock scene, they channel the spirit of the past while forging their own path forward.
As we eagerly await the release of their upcoming album, MASS, on September 29, 2023, Friendship Commanders continue to prove themselves as a force to be reckoned with in the world of heavy music. Their unyielding passion, coupled with their ability to craft hard-hitting, emotionally charged compositions, ensures that they will remain an essential act in the modern rock landscape.
In a world hungry for genuine and unapologetic rock music, Friendship Commanders offer a sound that is both nostalgic and refreshing. With their forthcoming album and memoir on the horizon, their artistic journey promises to be an exhilarating one. Brace yourselves, because Friendship Commanders are ready to unleash their sonic onslaught upon the world, and we couldn’t be more thrilled to bear witness.