What makes Up from the Muck by As Friends Rust notable?

This EP has been recognized for re-establishing As Friends Rust's presence in the hardcore scene, leading to sold-out shows following its release. Critics noted its balance of nostalgia and modernity, appealing to both longtime fans and new listeners alike. Released on July 3, 2020, 'Up from the Muck' marks As Friends Rust's return after a long hiatus since their last album in 2004. This EP comes during a phase of renewed activity for the band, reflecting their evolution while staying true to their roots in emotional hardcore.

How many songs are on Up from the Muck?

Up from the Muck has 2 tracks, running approximately 7 minutes.

Up from the Muck

As Friends Rust · 2020

7 min · 2 tracks · melodic hardcore

A raw blend of emotional intensity and melodic hooks that captures the band's signature hardcore ethos.

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Top tracks — play these first

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Up From the Muck — The title track encapsulates the EP's themes of resilience and renewal, showcasing dynamic shifts between aggressive riffs and melodic refrains.
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Last of the Famous International Scumbags — This track combines biting lyrics with infectious energy, highlighting the band's knack for blending humor with serious commentary on fame and identity.

Elevation

Our rating, out of 100 — and why.

AI-generated from five scored dimensions. An opinion, not a measurement.

48 /100

Foothills

Higher than 19% of albums we've rated

The EP effectively balances hardcore energy with melodic elements, appealing to both old and new fans.

What we noticed

The EP opens with a fast-paced track that features aggressive guitar riffs and intense drumming, establishing a high energy from the start.
Both tracks feature layered vocal harmonies that intertwine with the instrumentation, enhancing the emotional weight of the lyrics.

Composition 25% of the score: 6/10
Craft 20% of the score: 7/10
Durability 25% of the score: 5/10
Distinctiveness 18% of the score: 6/10
Sequencing 12% of the score: 6/10

Influence 3/10

Known within its scene. Reported but not counted — how far a record travelled describes its reception rather than the record, and a newer release has had less time to travel than an older one.

Moments worth listening for

Where the writing does something specific.

Up From the Muck

The vocal delivery shifts from introspective verses to an explosive chorus signifies a breakthrough in self-acceptance.

This structural choice underscores the journey from struggle to empowerment, mirroring the broader themes of overcoming adversity present throughout the EP.

Tracklist

Best experienced from track one — press play and let it unfold.

1 Up From the Muck 3:21
2 Last of the Famous International Scumbags 3:45

What to play next

Listen next

Any Joy

2023

Go back to

Won

2001

Full As Friends Rust discography Artists like As Friends Rust

emotional hardcore melodic hardcore

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