Hardcore punk band Human Issue release new single & video ‘Waking’

Human Issue is a Southern California hardcore punk band rooted in the raw urgency of 80s hardcore. Fast, direct, and stripped of excess, the band pairs short-burst songwriting with sharp, poetic lyrics and a strict “get in, get out” approach. The band announce their signing with Smartpunk Records and share gripping new single and video “Waking.” The track rips through  flashes of melody, harsh riffs, and punchy drums backing an assertive dual vocal delivery from Hunter Martinez and Matthew Watkins. The video for the song captures the band in their element with grit and dynamism.

You can watch the video HERE and stream “Waking” HERE.

On the story behind “Waking,” vocalist Hunter Martinez shares:

“The song ‘Waking’ is an ode to my friends back home. A group of kids from broken homes who bonded over drinking, stealing, fighting, and being reckless. Waking up later in life feeling the heaviness, visiting those memories, wishing I could change the past and feeling emotional about those who never made it out of that stage in life. Feeling guilt for the friends who had passed early on.”

Human Issue have several upcoming shows in California including April 11th in Ventura supporting Rich Kids on LSD and Good Riddance. The band will perform at Camp Punksylvania festival in June. Full dates below.

Founded by Martinez, Human Issue began as a collaborative music collective rather than a fixed lineup. The project emerged in 2021 and dropped their debut Faceless.Nameless in 2022, then heading out on tour with friends rotating in to fill van seats and stage spots. With more new music on the way, Human Issue has settled into a more permanent lineup while still keeping the ethos that started things in the first place.

Upcoming Shows:
3/22 – Los Angeles, CA – Club Tee Gee w/ Basuko, Negative Blast
4/10 – Fullerton, CA – Programme
4/11 – Ventura, CA – Ventura Music Hall w/ Rich Kids on LSD, Good Riddance
6/19-21 – Gilbert, PA – Camp Punksylvania

Human Issue is
Hunter Martinez – Vocals
Matthew Watkins – Vocals
Sam Mankinen – Drums
Ryan Marino – Bass
Dylan Moore – Guitar
Emmett O’Reilly – Guitar.