MENEW takes a Sonic Leap into the World of Electronic Dance Music

It’s not often that an alt-rock band known for its brooding melodies and British rock influences dives headfirst into the pulsating world of EDM, but that’s exactly what Canadian trio MENEW did in 2024. Teaming up with electronic music heavyweight DJ Dzeko, the band dropped “Never Us,” a track that blended their rock roots with the infectious beats of pop-leaning dance music. The result? A single that lit up U.S. Dance radio, swiftly climbing the dance and mix-show airplay charts over the summer.

From Alt-Rock to Dancefloor

“Never Us” marked a sonic shift for MENEW, a group that has earned its stripes with anthemic alt-rock tracks and classical music training. With Dzeko in the mix, they crafted a melodic EDM record that was more accessible to the pop crowd—a sound that recalled the euphoric hooks of some of Dzeko’s biggest hits. The track’s success was undeniable, proving that MENEW could step outside their comfort zone without missing a beat.

Turning Up the Heat with BYOR

But the story doesn’t end there. In August 2024, MENEW took things up a notch, partnering with DJ BYOR for an even harder-hitting remix of “Never Us.” If the original leaned into pop, this version was pure EDM adrenaline. Gone were the catchy pop hooks, replaced by driving synths and relentless drum beats that threw MENEW deep into the heart of the dance music world. This wasn’t just a remix—it was a full-blown transformation, signaling the band’s evolution from alt-rock stalwarts to versatile musicians capable of holding their own in a genre dominated by DJs and producers.

Rock Roots, Boundless Horizons

MENEW, composed of brothers Shade (vocals, guitar), Key (piano, synths), and Nathan Samuel Phillip (drums, vocals), have long been known for their dynamic soundscapes. They’ve drawn comparisons to giants like Muse, Coldplay, and The Killers, with Loudwire even dubbing them “the genius, dirty lovechild” of those bands. Their early work, including the critically acclaimed albums *Wide Awake Hello* and *Mother Nature*, was short-listed for multiple Grammy nominations and secured high-profile placements on networks like NBC, CBS, and ESPN. MENEW has also shared stages with rock royalty, touring with U2, Stone Temple Pilots, and Linkin Park. 

The Future is Electric

But with “Never Us” and its remixes, MENEW seems intent on redefining their legacy. Their foray into EDM isn’t entirely without precedent—under their side project Brothers, they’ve dabbled in the electronic world before, performing at Cannes and releasing club-ready tracks like “In Cali” and “Overdrive.” But “Never Us” feels like something more—a bold statement that they’re ready to cross genres and challenge expectations.

For MENEW, the future looks as unpredictable as it is exciting. As they continue to blur the lines between alt-rock and electronic music, fans can expect more sonic surprises. One thing’s for sure: MENEW’s ability to adapt and innovate makes them one of the most intriguing acts in the modern music landscape. Their latest single “The Walls,” slated for release in September 2024, is bound to keep listeners guessing—and that’s exactly how they like it.