Emerging Artist Reviews

Simon Says Releases New Single "Punky Brewster"

by The Metalverse

Updated August 28, 2025

Sacramento emocore/nu metal act Simon Says are back with their new single Punky Brewstar, following their 2024 return album Perfect Example, which ended the bands hiatus since 2000.

Simon Says originally formed in the early 90s alongside the likes of fellow Sacramento acts like Papa Roach. The 5-piece act returns with a blistering sound that is raw, heavy, and bursting with energy. Punky Brewster starts off with a distorted voicemail intro that leads into high melodic guitar and booming drums before full band destruction joins the fray. Raw screams cut through the mix as hard-hitting guitar riffs and impactful drums create a fierce heavy metal sound.

Simon Says utilizes contrast expertly between verses with intentionally "lighter" atmospheres and trailing bass drops that create a dramatic sound–meanwhile the track's chorus is filled with crushing distorted guitar, explosive screams, and a brutally heavy sound.

Simon Says might have taken a lengthy hiatus, but they are back and stronger than ever with a modern sound that takes influences from the '90s scene and molds it into a dynamic and hard-hitting sound that is fresh yet strikes a nostalgic chord.

Vocalist Matt Franks states:

(On their return) It really happened by accident. We got back together and got in a room to even discuss this stuff, because of the huge amount of fan interest in the first two records, which, at the time, were not even available digitally. So, we got together to discuss that, and try to figure out how to reconnect with our former label, Hollywood, and find a path to release for those records, which really sparked a renewed interest and friendship for all of us, after getting in the same room after so long.

Fans of punk, hard rock, and metal will love the modern reiteration of Simon Says. You can stream Simon Says' music out on all platforms now, with plans for more new music soon!