Nova Scotia’s punk-infused garage rock trio Human Missile Crisis has dropped a brand-new music video for their single “Snake in the Grass,” the lead track from their upcoming two-song EP, “Waste Away,” set for release on November 14th.
A fuzzed-out, dance-floor-ready anthem with venom in its lyrics and swagger in its slide guitar, “Snake in the Grass” is a sonic warning shot aimed at the backstabbers and two-faced figures we all encounter.
“It’s about those people who smile to your face and twist the knife when you turn around. We’ve all met them. This one’s part of my story,” says frontman DJ Vaters.
The video, like the track, is a visceral blend of grit and groove, an invitation to lose control and let loose.
“Mosh pit? More like a dance pit,” the band jokes. “It’s got fast, fun drums, a slidey guitar riff, and even a quiet, pretty bass solo bridge. What more do you want? Just dance.”
Recorded live off the floor at Sound Park Studios with longtime collaborator Jamie Foulds, marking their first session together in over 20 years, the EP captures the raw energy and emotional honesty that defines Human Missile Crisis. The tracks were mixed by Foulds and mastered by Brad Boatright at Audiosiege (Portland, OR).
Formed by Cape Breton natives DJ Vaters (guitar/vocals), Justin Boutilier (bass/backups), and Matthew MacIsaac (drums), Human Missile Crisis is a therapeutic journey through the chaos of adulthood. With roots in punk rock and a sound shaped by post-punk, garage, and blues, the band channels influences like Idles, Fucked Up, and The Hives into something uniquely their own.
The “Waste Away” EP also features “Mona Lisa,” a more traditional rock track with a heavy punk chorus, written for the night-shift warriors and road-weary musicians who long for home. Together, the two songs showcase the band’s dynamic range and collaborative spirit.
The EP’s artwork was created by local artist @sourrgrrrl designs, whose style caught Vaters’ eye on a telephone pole sticker.
“I sent her the tracks and said, ‘Do your thing.’ I love working with artists that way, just let the music speak.”
Whether you’re a longtime fan or a newcomer to the chaos, Human Missile Crisis invites you to join the party. They don’t want fans, they want friends and family.
“Come to a show, dance with us, laugh with us. That’s what it’s all about,” says Vaters.
Add to your Spotify playlist – https://distrokid.com/hyperfollow/humanmissilecrisis/snake-in-the-grass
“Waste Away” is out everywhere on November 14th, 2025.