Lifting weights at the gym—that’s a topic that doesn’t typically cross my desk. Not interested, quite frankly. Yet Chicago’s Stuck have managed to turn the experience into the poetic subject of “Deadlift,” their phenomenal latest single from their forthcoming record, Optimizer. The track explores the isolating nature of modern wellness culture, all while delivering a potent dose of post-hardcore energy.
“I have become somewhat of a gym rat over the last several years,” admits Greg Obis, guitarist and vocalist for Stuck. “Lifting weights has been indispensable for my physical and mental health. And yet, when I’m in a dark place, the gym can sometimes underscore feelings of loneliness and futility. ‘Deadlift’ uses the gym as a way to look at how atomized we have become; fixating on ourselves in public, locked into our fitness routines with our headphones, barely acknowledging the other people in the room, optimizing our wellness while racing to a red light.”
The song’s lyrics perfectly capture this sense of detached self-improvement: “Headphones in / Eyes locked on my figure a room full of men / Ignoring each other.” The music itself mirrors this sentiment, with poignant riffs and an intense bassline that create a compelling sonic landscape. Stuck’s ability to translate personal experience into relatable, thought-provoking art is on full display with “Deadlift.”
The band enlisted Austin Vesely to direct the music video for “Deadlift,” further enhancing the song’s themes. Fans can watch the video now and experience the track’s powerful message firsthand.
Optimizer: A New Chapter for Stuck
Optimizer, the album featuring “Deadlift,” is slated for release on March 27 via Exploding In Sound. The album was recorded at Electrical Audio with engineer and producer Andrew Oswald (Marble Eyed, Powerplant and Smirk), and mastered by Greg Obis at Chicago Mastering Service according to Exploding In Sound Records. The album artwork was designed by Tim Green.
Stuck—comprising Greg Obis on guitar and vocals, Tim Green on drums, percussion, and keys, and David Algrim on bass and backing vocals—have been steadily building a reputation for their emotionally resonant and sonically adventurous music. Zach Elias contributed guitar work on the track “It Isn’t,” while Sarah Clausen and Kristyn Chapman add saxophone and bass clarinet to the band’s dynamic sound as detailed on the record label’s website.
The band’s creative process for Optimizer involved a deliberate shift in approach. Obis began writing songs without preconceived notions about the band’s sound, allowing the material to evolve organically. This willingness to experiment, combined with Oswald’s expertise and the band’s collective talent, has resulted in an album that promises to be a standout release of the year.
Tour Dates and Pre-Order Information
While specific tour dates haven’t been fully announced, Stuck will be touring the east coast this spring in support of Optimizer as reported by Greg Obis. Fans are encouraged to stay tuned for updates on tour locations and ticket availability.
Optimizer is currently available for pre-order in various formats, including digital download, LP, and a limited-edition LP + long sleeve shirt bundle via Bandcamp. Digital pre-orders include instant access to two tracks, with the full album available upon its release on March 27. The vinyl pressing is a blue vinyl edition.
What comes next for Stuck is a spring tour and the release of a record that promises to resonate with listeners long after the final notes fade. Optimizer is poised to solidify Stuck’s position as a vital force in the contemporary post-hardcore scene.
What are your initial thoughts on “Deadlift”? Share your reactions in the comments below, and be sure to spread the word about Stuck’s upcoming album!
