Vocalist/guitarist Ayron Jones is not one to stray from weighty subject matter; whether it’s “a painful divorce, a life inundated by the spotlight, [or] the painful loss of his mother to drug and alcohol addiction,” he and his band (completed by drummer Ehssan Kirimi and bassist Bob Lovelace) use their colorful, multifaceted, and retro rock platform to enlighten as much as entertain. Case in point: Audio Paint Job, a stellar sophomore sequence that finds the trio exploring Jones’ “mental and spiritual transformation through music.” Without a doubt, one of the highlights of the record is its ninth entry, “Stand Up,” a poignant and electrifying beast that’s sure you inspire multiple kinds of movement.

As Jones explains:

In this current political climate, it’s hard not to feel as if our natural rights are being threatened by those with money and perceived power. However, the truth is now and has always been the same: true power lies in the hands of the people. “Stand Up” was inspired by the great political rock icons Rage Against the Machine as a reminder [that] where there is a heartbeat, there is hope.

“Stand Up” certainly recalls classic Rage Against the Machine first and foremost, as Jones evokes both the vocal and lyrical spitfire of Zack de la Rocha, as well as the distinctively biting twang of guitarist Tom Morello. There’s also a bit of classic Aerosmith, Red Hot Chili Peppers, Led Zeppelin, and Public Enemy mixed into the track’s abrasive yet alluring hooks, DIY percussion, subtle backing chants, enraged phrases, and funky rhythms. All in all, “Stand Up” is a refreshing and relevant battle cry whose music and message are equally gripping, and it signifies just how powerful Audio Paint Job will be when it releases on June 2nd, 2017 (via Sunyata Records).