Good Teal, a new alternative hardcore four-piece band from New Jersey, has entered the scene, and they dropped their debut EP about a week ago. It’s a self-titled EP, contains eight tracks, and is self-recorded AND produced. We love to see independent bands thrive on their own. The EP has a unique take driven by aggression and exploration while still ringing true to influence from alternative garage rock sounds. 

Vocalist and bassist Reg Mason has shared insight on the EP and their tracks — each one is a self-exploration on life and all it has to offer — whether it’s heartbreak, loss, and even about the time in creating the very band. I think the idea that each track alone has a different topic makes this EP so impressive and different from what music might offer us today. Sometimes it feels like a majority of songs revel in these feelings versus the exploring of what it reflects. 

Each track is so explosive in sound and hard-hitting lyrics right off the bat — catchy and riffs, what a perfect combination. I especially like how “Freefall” opens. The hook is repetitive and just sticks in your mind, your foot starts tapping without even realizing it. The echo-y effect with the vocals as they enter. Then it leans into more of a toned-down beat but without losing its rhythm. Track “Bittersweet” is also a fun listen. Stronger vocal introduction at the beginning, with a softer start than the other songs, pairs well with the title “Bittersweet,” as the tones in it give that feeling and vibe. This track is described as “accepting that sometimes we’re not as special as we think,” which is such an interesting thought. I know that sometimes we all want to think we’re special and the best thing ever, but at the same time, we are our own worst critics. The feelings that are behind the story of this song, and the overall ambiance, are such a relatable yet toxic trap that one’s own mind get caught in. How do you even begin to describe a song with that thought process, while also remembering that acceptance is not always defeat? Accepting that you yourself aren’t special isn’t admitting anything other than that we are all human—and more alike than we might think. Is anyone really better than anyone else in this world?

I thoroughly enjoyed checking this EP out and since this is their first introduction into the music world, I can’t wait to see where they go next. Hopefully a tour which includes a Milwaukee date so I can hear these tracks played live? One can only hope.