The two new singles from Poems’s Half-Life EP are strikingly honest snapshots of what it’s like to live with anxiety and the complicated feelings that come with it.

“NFS” (“Naked For Science”) sets the tone with a moody, almost hypnotic vibe. It’s about trying to figure out who you really are when your mind is clouded by prescription drugs – the foggy, vulnerable place where it’s hard to be fully yourself.

The lyrics are vague but powerful, and allow the listener to feel into the tension without spelling everything out. The vocals have that cool, detached style that you might recognize from Interpol, but Poems use it to build something that feels their own.

“NFS” leans on simple, sharp guitar riffs – two string power chords that give it a raw, indie rock energy without overdoing it. Thanks to producer Billy Foster’s subtle hand, and the slick mixing and mastering by John Catlin and John Greenham, this track comes alive with a clean yet intimate sound.

“Afterparty” takes a different approach however. It’s more direct and is built around a catchy chorus riff that sticks in your head. It tells the story of a young person wrestling with anxiety and medication, wondering if they are liked for who they truly are or just because of the meds.

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The production by Brian Squillace balances it all out with a polished indie rock sound. Played as the closer in their live sets, “Afterparty” leaves a lasting impression. A perfect mix of doubt and hope, wrapped in a tune that makes you want to sing along.

Together, these singles reveal Poems’s strength – turning complicated feelings and personal struggles into music that is relatable and real.

With the rest of their Half-Life EP matching these songs, Poems are on the path to making some of the most compelling indie rock around right now.

About Poems

Poems started in 2021 as a solo project but grew into a full band by 2022 when two more members joined. Since then, they’ve made a name for themselves in San Diego’s indie scene, playing legendary venues like Belly Up Tavern and The Music Box.

They have also had a standout moment opening for The Never Ending Fall in San Francisco. After releasing their first EP West Coast in 2024, they followed it up recently with Half-Life in July 2025, an EP that digs deep into themes of anxiety and identity all wrapped in a fresh, guitar driven indie rock sound.

Keep up to date with Poems on their Website

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Listen to Half-Life here!