San Jose punk outfit American Standard return swinging with “Milgram’s Justification,” a sharp, confrontational single that leans into punk rock’s role as a mirror for uncomfortable truths. The title alone sets the tone, referencing the famous obedience experiment and framing the song around responsibility, authority, and the ease with which people justify their actions.
Musically, the track is tense and driving. Guitars grind with purpose, the rhythm section stays locked and relentless, and the vocals cut through with urgency rather than theatrics. There’s a strong sense of control in the chaos, making the song feel deliberate and focused rather than reckless. It’s punk that thinks as much as it shouts.
Lyrically, “Milgram’s Justification” doesn’t spoon-feed its message. Instead, it circles around the idea of moral compromise, asking how far people are willing to go when told they are “just following orders.” The words land hard because they feel relevant, grounded, and unsettling in a quiet way.
With this single, American Standard reaffirm their place in the San Jose punk scene as a band unafraid to challenge listeners.
