Trespasser, one of Brooklyn’s most hidden gems, has dropped their latest single, “Man.” With this release, the band dives into uncharted waters, weaving a deep narrative around identity and what it means to be a man, all through the lens of their own diverse life in the city. But “Man” is so much more than just a track; it’s an adventurous departure from anything Trespasser has done before, inviting us into the realm of “Outlaw Scrungle.” This term they’ve drawn up mixes the raw edge of outlaw country with the gritty, offbeat vibes of indie and alternative rock, resulting in a sound that’s both utterly refreshing and nostalgically familiar.
The story behind “Man” starts right in the day-to-day hustle of the Trespasser band members, inspired by the lively buzz of New York City streets and the quiet moments in their own respective homes. This mix of city vibes brings a whole new energy to their music, mixing their native California “old west” feel with the heartbeat of NYC city living. With “Man,” Trespasser weaves these different threads together, giving us a thoughtful look at what it means to be a man today, in a way that’s both down-to-earth and honestly real.
Making “Man” was a deeply collaborative and reflective process, truly capturing the spirit of Trespasser as they dove into themes of queerness and the collective joy of creating music together. The song naturally took shape, inspired by the city’s pulse and the band members’ own lives. Their approach to songwriting was spontaneous and thoughtful, letting them pour genuine emotion and authenticity into every note. When it came to recording “Man,” the band experimented with different spots, finally rediscovering the magic right where they started: in Clay’s (guitar/vocals) bedroom, the birthplace of their initial demos. This return to their roots underlines the band’s commitment to doing things their own way and their belief in the magic that happens when you keep things simple and real.
At its core, “Man” is all about celebrating who you are, pushing back against the usual stories told about gender and masculinity. It’s a song that knows how to have fun but also stands firm, mixing catchy lyrics with a powerful call to shake off the chains of what society expects – and honestly, we’re here for it. Trespasser wants this song to be a vibe for anyone listening to just be themselves, using their coined “Outlaw Scrungle” approach as a shout-out for the freedom to express who you are, especially if you’re part of the queer community. The band pulls from a whole spectrum of musical styles, from country twangs and bluegrass vibes to the raw energy of punk and the creativity of indie rock, infusing all these into “Man.” This blend makes for a sound that’s rich, layered, and really hard to put into just one box.
With its catchy guitar tunes and laid-back singing, the single really puts a spotlight on what each member of Trespasser brings to the table, showcasing the kind of teamwork and creativity that’s at the heart of their music. Their story, from starting out at Wesleyan University to making waves in New York City’s inner music scene, is all about growing, experimenting, and constantly reshaping their music and who they are. The way everyone in the band pitches in, adding their own flair to the music, mirrors how we all come together to figure out who we are and where we belong.
Highlighted in the single, the band has a bold and no hesitation take when diving deep into the big questions about gender and identity, sparking a wider conversation with their audience about how fluid and complex these ideas really are. The song’s playful yet bold sound is Trespasser’s way of pushing back against the usual expectations, providing a anthem for anyone trying to live life on their own terms. This spirit of rebellion, mixed with a wide range of musical styles, tells a story that’s both deeply personal and universally relatable, touching on the journey we all take to find ourselves.
As Trespasser looks ahead, dropping “Man” marks a major moment for them, showing off their knack for mixing different sounds, feelings, and ideas into something truly special. Their commitment to being genuine, in their music and as individuals, is something that really speaks to their fans, fostering an atmosphere where everyone is encouraged to be open and accepting. With their ongoing musical adventure, Trespasser doesn’t just carve out their own niche in the music scene; they also add to the bigger conversation about how music can break down walls and bring us all a little closer together, sharing in our common humanity.
If ‘Man‘ has stirred your curiosity and you find yourself strolling through NYC, don’t miss out on the opportunity to catch Trespasser live. You can watch them perform every third Wednesday of alternating months at the 11th Street Bar in Manhattan. In addition to these regular gigs, they also appear frequently throughout NYC.
Stay updated on their upcoming performances by checking their Instagram and Linktree for the most current schedule. Immersing yourself in the ‘Outlaw Scrungle’ vibes in person is definitely an experience you don’t want to miss.
