CNTS (Dead Cross, Qui & Retox) Release New Song/Video: “I Won’t Work For You”; West Coast Tour
Los Angeles-based band CNTS, featuring members of Dead Cross, Retox, and Qui, is gearing up for the release of their upcoming album “Thoughts & Prayers” on March 29. As anticipation builds, the band has just released their second single, “I Won’t Work For You,” accompanied by a thought-provoking music video directed by Meriel O’Connell.
The song serves as a direct response to the widely discussed narrative, particularly among conservatives, that “nobody wants to work anymore” after receiving unemployment benefits during lockdowns. Matt Cronk, the vocalist, sheds light on the inspiration behind the track, stating, “I Won’t Work For You was inspired by the talking point being bandied about, mostly by conservatives, that ‘nobody wants to work anymore’ after having collected unemployment during the lockdown.”
Cronk emphasizes a different perspective, highlighting the desire for fair pay, dignity, and a more equitable work environment. He notes, “Nobody wants to work for people who treat them badly. Nobody wants to work without the expectation of fair pay and dignity. Nobody wants to work for the sole purpose of enriching someone else, and nor should they! Work sucks.”
Guitarist Michael Crain succinctly adds, “Bosses suck.”
The accompanying video, directed by Meriel O’Connell, unfolds in a pizza joint where Crain had previously worked. The location adds a personal touch to the visual narrative, emphasizing camaraderie and support during tough times, as Crain occasionally treated Cronk to a free slice.
“I Won’t Work For You” arrives just as CNTS embarks on their first U.S. tour, spanning the West Coast. The tour kicks off on March 1 in Las Vegas and includes stops in cities like Seattle, Portland, San Francisco, and their hometown, Los Angeles. Fans can find ticketing links on Ipecac.com/tours.
The band’s lineup includes Mike Crain (Dead Cross, Retox, Festival of Dead Deer), drummer Kevin Avery (Retox, Planet B), and vocalist Matt Cronk (Qui). CNTS debuted with their self-titled album in 2019, and “Thoughts & Prayers” promises to be a powerful follow-up, tackling contemporary issues and challenging societal norms.
As they delve into themes of workplace dynamics and individual empowerment, CNTS sets the stage for a musical experience that resonates with those seeking change and fairness. With “I Won’t Work For You,” they’ve not only delivered a hard-hitting anthem but also ignited a conversation about the evolving nature of work and the expectations placed on employees.
The release of “Thoughts & Prayers” on March 29 is sure to solidify CNTS’s position as a band with a distinctive voice, unafraid to confront societal issues head-on.
CNTS tour dates:
March 1 Las Vegas, NV The Dive Bar
March 2 Bakersfield, CA 415
March 4 Seattle, WA Fun House
March 5 Portland, OR Polaris Hall
March 6 Bend, OR The Silver Moon
March 7 Sacramento, CA Café Colonial
March 8 San Francisco, CA Kilowatt Bar
March 9 Fresno, CA Destructive Warehouse
March 10 Pomona, CA Characters Bar (Early Show)
March 10 Long Beach, CA Supply & Demand (Late Show)
March 23 Los Angeles, CA Poor Kids Mansion
