Punk pundits Death Cassette address the shortcomings of the present healthcare system and the ever-widening gaps that people don’t just fall through, but are positioned to be dropped through. To bolster the band’s timely point of view, their music video for “Cheaper to Die” reflects the frustration of feeling invisible to the powers-that-be that ignore and disregard basic human rights.
Gravel tough vocals and nasty guitar riffs are undeniable pillars of “Cheaper to Die”, but the song itself is built on the real life experience of navigating a system that is positioned to fail more and more. Inspired by vocalist Amanda Sousa’s first-hand experience working at a nursing home and acting as a support system for her disabled, chronically ill grandfather, Sousa has witnessed this system’s failure in real time.
Hailing from Winnipeg, Manitoba, Canada, Death Cassette hace released 2 albums to date, including their prophetic debut in March of 2020 entitled Grim. Currently signed to High End Denim Records, Death Cassette are amongst the finest frontline punk acts that bring high energy, catchy riffs, and a palpable point of view.
The lyrics, music, and painfully relevant video deliver a salvo of sharp commentary that anyone outside the 1% can relate to. The video for “Cheaper to Die” centers on Sousa in an upscale ocean of suits and ties who do not even feign to acknowledge her. Going so far as to pull hair, clothing, and even steal drinks from their hands, the well-dressed and woefully ignorant do not budge. Backed by the rest of the band in their finest wait-staff attire, Death Cassette finds balance between modern critique, hardcore edge, and humour. This sentiment is mirrored as the video ends with the band in an empty room filled with the discarded garbage of the partygoers.
As the lead single from their forthcoming LP, “Cheaper to Die” hits so close to home you should feel it shake the foundation. Death Cassette join a long lineage of musicians bringing poignancy to power chords. The healthcare system may stand as a monolithic entity, but Death Cassette reminds the viewer that change can start with shaking up the right people.
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Bio:
Death Cassette is a grunge-infused punk band from Winnipeg that blends melodic punk, hardcore energy, and gritty 90s alternative influences into a raw and emotionally charged sound. Formed in 2018, the band has built a reputation for intense live performances, cathartic songwriting, and a style that balances aggression with melody. Their music draws comparisons to bands like Hole, The Distillers, and Fugazi while maintaining a sound distinctly their own. (punknews.org)
Fronted by Amanda Sousa, alongside Lindsey Hawkes, Chuck Barchuk, and Brock Macpherson, Death Cassette first emerged with their debut release Grim in 2020 before returning with the acclaimed EP Get Rid Of It in 2023. Produced by John Paul Peters at Private Ear Recording, the EP showcased the band’s evolution into a tighter, darker, and more dynamic force, combining driving punk rhythms, grunge-soaked guitars, and emotionally direct lyrics. Songs like “Reflector,” “Get Gone,” and “Solstice” explore themes of hypocrisy, frustration, self-reflection, and emotional exhaustion. (ckuw.ca)
Since forming, Death Cassette has become a staple of the Winnipeg punk scene, sharing stages with acts across Canada and earning praise for their high-energy performances and uncompromising approach to songwriting. Their partnership with High End Denim Records helped introduce the band to a wider punk audience through physical releases and touring support. (punknews.org)
