Photo courtesy of the band.
“Samuel S.C. channel the need for space into an urgent, full-bodied eruption on “I Need a Moment,” a rip-roaring, punk-charged indie rock reckoning that pulls desire, panic, wit, and self-recognition into the churning heat of feelings that refuse to sit still.” – Mitch Mosk says about the song
Produced by the masterful J. Robbins, the track barrels through two minutes of classic indie featuring uncluttered verses and soaring choruses, complete with the band’s trademark boy/girl harmonies – before ascending into a breathtaking prologue led by vocalist Vanessa Downing. It’s a powerful conclusion to a dynamic year of music—and a thrilling teaser for the band’s upcoming 2027 full-length album.
Samuel S.C. (FKA Samuel) continues to bridge the gap between ’90s indie-rock and timeless punk. Originally a cornerstone of drummer Eric Astor’s legendary Art Monk Construction label, the band reformed in 2021 with their DIY spirit firmly intact. Five years, one LP, one 7”, one split 10” and a 2nd LP in the works, S.C. isn’t just maintaining momentum—they’re accelerating.
The group’s 2026 trajectory is defined by a prolific streak that finds the band continuing to evolve and explore sounds that refuse to fall neatly into any sub-genre. Releasing one single per month since January, this month SSC shares their final installment of the series, “I Need a Moment”. Equal parts soaring indie rock and contemplative post-punk, “INAM” arrives on the heels of a dynamic set – the casual shimmer of “Mind Flies” (May), the straight-ahead melodic crunch of “Celestial” (April), the simmering and moody “Get Red” (March), the unbridled howl of “Push the Needle” (February), and the wistful, nostalgic “Another Good Lie” (January).
These single releases follow a landmark year featuring a 10″ split release with Florida’s Pohgoh and standout performances at Fest (Gainesville) and the inaugural Several States Festival in Chicago.
SSC’s current lineup features original members Vanessa Downing (vocals), Eric Astor (drums), JamesMarinelli (guitar/vocals), and Dean Taormina (guitar), with Michael Honch (bass, Continuals, Alarms & Controls) rounding out the mix. A full-length LP featuring the six 2026 singles plus previously unreleased music is in the works for 2027 via Expert Work Records and Sweet Cheetah Records.
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