Columbus trio Palette Knife are back with their latest single, “Prototype V.2,” out now via Take This To Heart Records. Known for their chaotic emo-punk sound and video game–inspired aesthetic, the band continues to evolve—blending jagged riffs, mathy rhythms, and introspective lyrics with offbeat charm.
“Prototype V.2” opens with a stuttering 7/8 guitar line before crashing into one of the most anthemic choruses in their catalog. It’s fast, fragmented, and deeply personal—packing equal parts emotional weight and quirky detail (“I’m a prototype for the protagonist in your eyes” hits hard, while nods to bonsai trees and stir-fry keep it weird in the best way).
Building off 2023’s New Game+, Palette Knife are pushing toward tighter songwriting without losing the eccentric energy that’s earned them a cult following. The new single feels like a level-up—leaner, smarter, and still rooted in the scene’s DIY weirdness.
Whether you’re here for the tapped-out riffs, the emotional depth, or the Nintendo-core vibes, “Prototype V.2” is a confident step forward. And with more music teased on the horizon, this is just the start of their next phase.
