In a fast-moving world where everyone is focused on the future, Moldy Roses pauses to reflect with their new single, "Friends." This upbeat track explores themes of youth, loss, and the unique beauty that comes with growing up. The band from Orange County, comprising Quin Manchester (guitar/vocals), Kevan O'Connor (guitar), Nick Viterelli (bass), and Nick Townsend (drums), delivers a heartfelt message through this title track from their debut EP.
"Friends" feels more like a collection of memories than just a song. It captures late nights full of laughter and moments spent together in a small apartment in Fullerton. As Quin Manchester puts it, it's about living with my best friends, eventually we all flunked out of school, and got kicked out of the apartment complex. Instead of dwelling on these struggles, Moldy Roses choose to celebrate them with energy and passion. The song opens with an explosive power chord, instantly taking you back to those nights you wish you could experience again. It's a high-energy piece, filled with emotion, showcasing everything that makes pop-punk exceptional, catchy vocals, powerful guitars, and drums that charge ahead like a shopping cart racing downhill. Quin's voice carries a sense of recollection, much like someone reminiscing over old photos with a mix of joy and sadness.
What makes "Friends" stand out is its honesty. It doesn't try too hard to seem cool, it simply is cool because it feels genuine. You can sense the bonds of friendship and the journey of growing up in every word and note. By the end of the song, you don't just hear their story, you feel as if you've shared those experiences with them.