It’s a miracle that any band lasted through the past couple of years. In a time of pronounced uncertainty, it’s nice that we can rely on artists to continue filling the world with cool. And Portland’s resident rock-and-rollers Last Giant have struck gold again with their newest single ‘Hell on Burnside’.

Since 2014, Last Giant has released a steady stream of rock hits. The band maintains a rigorous tour schedule and continually pops up on TV shows and podcasts. The band began working on their forthcoming record ‘Monuments’ in early 2021. Recording in makeshift spaces, the band went through several different masters before finally settling on the sound they heard in their minds. Two years later, we are finally able to hear the fruits of their labor.

‘Hell on Burnside’ is a masterclass of rock songwriting. Big riffs meet catchy melodies. From the moment the band locks in together, they don’t let up. It’s clear this band has been refining their craft for years. The choruses are massive. The verses are dripping with swagger. To help give some visual insight into the song, the band has constructed an almost-lyric video that mimics scrolling through a social media feed. Footage of rehearsal and tracking mix with fail videos to provide a slice of Last Giant’s life.

<a href="https://lastgiant.bandcamp.com/album/monuments">Monuments by Last Giant</a>

‘Hell on Burnside’ is a giant swing, and it doesn’t miss. Last Giant knows how to write rock and roll songs, and they’re not afraid to take risks. Hardworking and meticulous, they’ve sunk the past two years of their life into the forthcoming record ‘Monuments’. Take a bite now with ‘Hell on Burnside’. Enjoy the full meal later this year!

Watch the video for ‘Hell on Burnside’ below, and stick around for an interview with the band!

Does making songs and records help you navigate the turbulent times we are living in?

I suppose it does, yes. It’s always been therapeutic/ meditative. That’s why I love it so much. Creation is a super safe space for me and has saved me throughout my life. I know I wouldn’t be around otherwise. As far as the times we are in, I can’t make any sense of it so I think music is more about alleviation vs navigation

Y’all made this record in makeshift recording spaces. Did that recording process shape the songs?

No, the songs were already written / demoed. It did have a major impact on performance however. I was recording vocals with people on the other side of a wall or in a closet with people in the vicinity. I knew I was gonna embarrass myself but I sure as hell wanted it to sound as good as possible so it lit a fire.

You’ve been a band for a long time. How do y’all stay inspired? What keeps your creative spirits flowing?

I am one of those people that has to be creating or I fall into a pretty bad depression. Although sometimes what comes out I can’t stand, which has its own pitfalls, if I don’t try and create or chase a muse then I feel pretty lost. Trying to work it out with a therapist ya know (insert laugh track here). I just haven’t ever felt ok to take a break. The other guys, especially Matt (drums), likes to have new tracks to play, so I keep him busy. I also have other projects to occupy my writing time. It ebbs and flows but when it flows I’ve got to be present.

What advice do you have for younger artists looking to follow in your footsteps?

Learn a trade, get therapy but if that doesn’t work then know in your heart the only reason you’re doing this is for yourself and because you love it. Otherwise life is gonna hurt.

Any plans to tour this year? Where can we find you?

We have a show in Portland on 6/30 after the record comes out and then we plan to hit the road in the fall.

Last Giant Official Website / Facebook / Instagram / Bandcamp / YouTube