Norway’s Armatage Shanks return with “Not the Same,” a melodic punk single that shows just how far the band has come. Built on crisp riffs, steady rhythms, and choruses that open wide, the track wears its skate-punk influences proudly but carries a sharper sense of identity than ever before.
The song’s title feels intentional. “Not the Same” captures a band evolving—still rooted in the energy of Bad Religion, Rise Against, and Millencolin, but pushing those blueprints into something that’s distinctly theirs. The verses hold tension, the chorus bursts into release, and the hooks stick hard enough to linger after the last chord fades.
It follows the momentum of their 2024 full-length Story Untold, which critics praised for its blend of melody and bite. That record balanced anthems with quieter, reflective moments; this single condenses both sides into three tight minutes. Melodic, urgent, and emotionally charged, it’s a reminder that Armatage Shanks aren’t standing still.
“Not the Same” is less about reinvention than refinement. It’s punk rock sharpened into melody, carrying just enough edge to keep you hooked and hinting that their best work may still be ahead.
