Distance often fractures creative partnerships, but for The Transits, an ocean is merely a vehicle for innovation. Split between Auckland and Durban, the trio of Ryan Lunn, Dom Antelme, and Tyrone Smith, have redefined remote collaboration, seamlessly exchanging files to dismantle and rebuild their tracks from respective home studios.
It’s a unique approach that clearly works for the trio, and now, they’re back with ‘Tongue Tied’, a searing new single that marks the beginning of an era the band is calling ‘Season 3’. Having arrived right on schedule for Halloween, the track upholds the group's tradition of dropping fresh material alongside a new video every October 31st.
Following their highly successful self-titled debut and the expansive explorations of their sophomore record ‘Bleed Hope’, this latest cut feels noticeably luminous and urgent. Produced and mixed entirely by Lunn, the song is a high-energy convergence of gritty punk elements, urgent drumming, and shimmering 1980s synthesisers. The driving guitars set a frantic pace right out of the gate, while the vocals give the music a dynamic texture that perfectly mirrors the push and pull of the track.
While ‘Bleed Hope’ pushed the boundaries of their dark pop inclinations, ‘Tongue Tied’ strips away some of that shadowy atmosphere in favour of a chorus that immediately establishes itself in your mind. It delivers a gripping dose of punk attitude wrapped in massive pop sensibilities. The ebb and flow of the verses build relentless momentum, setting the stage perfectly for a sprawling, melodic payoff. Despite a heavy lean into nostalgic teenage influences, the execution feels entirely vibrant and forward-looking, cementing them as a standout alternative rock outfit.
Accompanying the single is a 1970s-inspired short film that nods heavily to the psychological unease of The Shining. The new video seamlessly blends the frantic pacing of a music video with the creeping dread of a horror film, visually mirroring the song’s unsettled energy. ‘Tongue Tied’ proves that The Transits are completely incapable of sitting still, cementing their status as a truly transcontinental creative unit.
To keep up with their rapidly unfolding new chapter, make sure to track The Transits across their official digital platforms and website, or hit follow on Instagram, Facebook, and TikTok.
