Liar

The Zoo Crew, those groovy hippie DJs at THE ZOO radio station, are spinning "Liar" by Huntingtons from their 2020 album ¡Muerto, Carcel, O Rocanrol!, and the Zoo Freaks are loving it. This fast-paced punk rock anthem, with its catchy chorus, has been a fan favorite, as noted by a Bandcamp user, reeferbot, who called the album their "new religion" and singled out "Liar" as their top track. The song’s raw energy and biting lyrics fit perfectly with the album’s theme of breaking free from stagnation, reflecting the band’s choice of "Rocanrol" over "Muerto" (death) or "Carcel" (jail). In a 2020 review by Indie Vision Music, "Liar" was praised for its speed and infectious hook, drawing comparisons to early ‘80s hardcore punk influences like Black Flag. The track’s intensity and relatable themes of betrayal make it a standout for listeners tuning in to THE ZOO.

Not much has surfaced directly from interviews about "Liar" itself, but the album’s context provides some juicy trivia. Released on January 31, 2020, just before the global shutdown, ¡Muerto, Carcel, O Rocanrol! marked Huntingtons’ first full-length in 17 years, a comeback celebrated by fans on platforms like Bandcamp. The album, including "Liar," was recorded in 2019 at Orion Studios by Joe Tracey and remixed in 2024 by Perry Leenhouts at Point Break Sound for the Renacido! edition, giving it a polished yet gritty edge. A fun tidbit from the band’s Bandcamp merch page mentions the album’s promotional T-shirt, featuring the band’s faces, which sold out quickly except for a few small sizes, hinting at the cult following that snapped up anything tied to this release. The song’s lyrical shift toward mature, real-life issues, as noted in reviews, suggests "Liar" might stem from personal experiences, though the band keeps it ambiguous, letting the music speak for itself.

Huntingtons, hailing from Baltimore, Maryland, kicked off their punk rock journey in 1993–1994, founded by Cliff Powell (Cliffy Huntington), Mike Holt (Mikey Huntington), and Mike Pierce (Mikee Huntington). Heavily inspired by The Ramones, they carved out a niche in the Ramonescore scene, blending catchy hooks with raw energy. Their debut album, Sweet Sixteen, dropped in 1996 via Flying Tart Records, followed by a Ramones cover album, Rocket to Ramonia, on Burnt Toast Vinyl. The band gained traction with producer Mass Giorgini for their 1997 album Fun and Games, and by 1998, they signed with Tooth & Nail Records, releasing High School Rock. Their relentless pace saw them drop five albums in 1999–2000, including File Under Ramones, which was so authentic that Joey Ramone chose them as his backing band for two CBGB’s shows. Despite lineup changes, with Josh Blackway and Josh Zimmer joining later, Huntingtons built a loyal fanbase through constant touring and their DIY ethos.

You can keep up with Huntingtons on their official website at huntingtonsusa.bandcamp.com, where they sell music and merch like the coveted ¡Muerto, Carcel, O Rocanrol! keychain. They’re active on Facebook, sharing updates and nostalgic posts, and on Instagram, where they post throwbacks and new releases. Their X account keeps the conversation going with fans. For Zoo Freaks wanting to dive deeper, check out the fan-driven Huntingtons Fan Group on Facebook, where devotees share rare finds and show stories. Another gem is Sexy Baby Records, a label site that chronicles the band’s discography and legacy, perfect for fans craving more punk rock history.