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Whatever… recently rejoined Dr. Strange Records and released a J. Robbins-produced full-length, Into Darker Days, on May 30. Vocalist and guitarist Ben Wrecked describes the album as “a raw, politically charged punk album that rips through themes of societal decay, personal disillusionment, and emotional burnout. Brutal, honest, and unapologetically loud—This is punk for the end times.”

The band now shared their video for “Our Decline” before heading to California for a run of shows. Vocalist/guitarist Wrecked says, “Like a monster that won’t die—reflections sneer; shadows talk back, and every word cuts deep. Fueled by the delusion of pretending you’re better off alone. Our Decline—ugly, loud, and past the point of redemption.”

Originally active from 1991-1997, Cleveland’s Whatever… released their first new music in 27 years in 2024. The Our Decline seven-inch (Siren Records SR/WR#010) featured two brand new songs showcasing the band’s signature song craft and intensity. Ben Wrecked (vocals, guitar) and Matt Fish (drums) are joined once again by second guitarist Brett Moore (Sidecar, Night Sweats, Dead In London), and new bassist Peter Woodward (Sidecar, the Unknown, Restless Habs).

From the edge of Cleveland in 1991, childhood comrades Fish and Wrecked began a musical journey. Propelled by their shared passion for punk, rock, metal, and a touch of mischief, their journey was marked by bassist lineup changes, fervent local and regional gigs, and a series of independent releases that garnered a dedicated following. Their alliance with Dead Beat Records and Runt Records in their early years helped set the stage for what was to come.

By 1996, the ensemble found their rhythm with Mike Slapface joining on bass. Their signature blend of aggressive yet melodic tunes found a home at Dr. Strange Records. Releases like the full-length Youngsters / DSR #69 and collaborations with label mates, notably Zoinks!, solidified their place in the punk rock scene. The addition of Brett Moore on second guitar further enriched their sound, leading to extensive tours across the U.S. and Europe alongside bands like The Bollweevils, Zoinks!, The Gain, and The Feds. However, as the ’90s drew to a close, the band took a step back, marking the end of an era in 1998.

Yet, 2023 brought a renaissance. The original comrades, joined again by guitar wizard Brett Moore and seasoned Cleveland musician Peter Woodward on bass, are rekindling their fiery spirit.

With a new album unleashed in 2025, the band are gracing stages locally, regionally, nationally, and are poised for a triumphant return. As they gear up to reignite their iconic sound, fans old and new can expect a resurgence of their infectious passion and energy.