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Seminal Chicago punk pioneers The Effigies are back with “Algorithm,” the latest blistering single taken from their upcoming sixth studio album, Fire Aim Ready. And today, we are premiering the video! 

“Algorithm” leans heavily into the signature riff-heavy punk metal sound that forged the band's reputation in the early 1980s. Backed by sharp, relentless lyrics, the track delivers an unflinching, clear-eyed critique of modern algorithmic control and contemporary social realities.

"The song is a throwback to early Effigies jams like Security, but aimed directly at today’s cell phone culture. Online personas. News feed cultivation. Digital inundation," says the band's Geoff Sabin. "We had fun with it as all the performers in the song sent handheld selfie style footage to director Matt Servo, who crafted the final video. Mind your Algorithm!"

Fire Aim Ready arrives October 23 via Chicago-based independent label Pravda Records on 12” LP vinyl, CD, digital download, and streaming services. Recorded at Hometown’s Million Yen Studios and produced, engineered, and mixed by guitarist Andy Gerber, the new record marks a monumental chapter for the group. It serves as their first studio release featuring new lead vocalist Geoff Sabin, who stepped into the role following the tragic passing of founding frontman John Kezdy in August 2023.

First formed in 1980, The Effigies - originally led by Kezdy alongside bassist Paul Zamost, drummer Steve Economou, and guitarist Earl Letiecq - helped build the Midwest punk movement. Through foundational releases like the 1981 Haunted Town EP and seminal tracks like “Body Bag,” their Midwestern working-class ethos provided a vital, authentic alternative to coastal punk scenes. As legendary producer/engineer Steve Albini once noted, The Effigies and Naked Raygun were essential forces that kept Chicago’s punk scene alive until it gained unstoppable momentum.

Following the release of Burned in 2024 - Kezdy’s final work - Sabin’s energetic presence has reinvigorated the band. Supported by extensive tour dates across the globe and high-profile festival slots including Riot Fest, Rebellion, and Punk Rock Bowling, The Effigies continue to honor Kezdy's legacy while driving their aggressive, egalitarian punk spirit forward into a new era.