Superintendo Releases New Punk Single “Hearts & Cliques”
Chapel Hill punk band Superintendo is back with their latest single, “Hearts & Cliques,” which critiques the influences of modern attention economics and social media on artistic expression. Released on September 4 through Punkerton Records, it’s the first offering from their upcoming album, We Will Not Be Undersold, set to drop this winter.
The song tackles the contradictions faced by artists today: the necessity of creating for algorithms while critiquing that very same system. Vocalist and guitarist Luke West highlights personal experiences that influenced the writing, particularly a review of a previous track that questioned whether its lengthy intro would fit into an algorithm-driven landscape.
West explains, “I thought the criticism was fair, but I feel bad for those who write songs just to please a computer.” The result is a punchy skate punk anthem that juxtaposes a critique of online culture with energetic, engaging music.
Musically, “Hearts & Cliques” draws from skate punk and pop punk influences, encapsulating a vibrant sound that still thrives within the very environment it challenges. The song is available across digital platforms and comes with an official music video.
Background on Superintendo
Superintendo formed in 2023 when West shared demos with drummer Mike Tyrrell, leading to the formation of the band as they expanded their horizons in the Raleigh, Durham, and Chapel Hill punk scenes. In 2025, they signed with Punkerton Records after building a repertoire that includes their debut album, Beauty Routine.
Their musical inspirations range from RX Bandits and Rancid to NOFX and PUP, illustrating a blend of punk and alternative influences.
“Hearts & Cliques” is not just a single but a statement on the modern struggles artists face when creating in a digital-first world, making Superintendo’s upcoming album highly anticipated.
You can listen to “Hearts & Cliques” here.
