REACH NYC is turning frustration into an anthem with the release of its latest single, “Fake Friends.” Packed with soaring hooks, punk rock energy, and a chorus built for crowd singalongs. The new track delivers an unapologetic message aimed at the people who disappear when life gets difficult.
The song arrives alongside an official music video and serves as another preview of the band’s upcoming album, Ride Or Die, for later this year. Following the release of “I Should Have Known” featuring P.O.D., “Fake Friends” continues to showcase the band’s blend of hard rock, alternative rock, and punk influences while leaning into themes that almost everyone can relate to.
Check out the official music video for “Fake Friends” below:
A Song About The People Who Were Never Really There
At its core, “Fake Friends” is exactly what the title suggests. Unless of hiding behind vague lyrics, vocalist Rene Mata makes it clear the song is inspired by both personal experiences and the culture surrounding social media.
“You can dedicate this song to the people in your life that are never there for you when the shit hits the fan,” Mata explained. “It’s for all the ‘fake friends’ and followers on social media that you’ll never meet.”
He also revealed that the song was influenced by two former friends from his own life, including someone he had known since high school and another person he believes stayed around primarily to gain backstage access at concerts.
That honesty gives the song an extra layer of authenticity. While “Fake Friends” delivers an upbeat, energetic sound, its message draws on experiences many listeners have dealt with themselves. It is a reminder that not every friendship is built to last, and sometimes the people closest to you reveal their true intentions when things become difficult.
Punk Energy Meets Modern Hard Rock
Musically, “Fake Friends” captures the kind of energy that has always worked well in a live setting.
Driven by upbeat rhythms, catchy guitar work, and a chorus designed for audiences to shout back at the stage, the track blends classic punk rock urgency with modern hard rock production. It feels equally suited for summer playlists and packed festival crowds.
The single was produced by Cass Dillon, whose credits include Grey Daze, Goo Goo Dolls, and Morgan Saint. Jay Baumgardner handled mixing. Baumgardner’s résumé includes work with Papa Roach, Bush, and Evanescence, making him a fitting collaborator for a band whose sound sits comfortably between alternative rock and hard rock.
Building Momentum Toward Ride Or Die
“Fake Friends” is another step toward REACH NYC’s next full length album, Ride Or Die, which is expected to be released later in 2026.
The upcoming record already stands out for its impressive list of collaborators. Featured appearances include Kiiara, Jacoby Shaddix of Papa Roach, Joey Santiago of Pixies, Jeff Gutt of Stone Temple Pilots, Sean Dowdell of Grey Daze, Des Rocs, Stevie Dacanay of Buckcherry, and Grace Mata.
That collection of guest artists hints at an album that will explore multiple corners of rock while staying rooted in the band’s aggressive, melodic foundation. With both “I Should Have Known” featuring P.O.D. and now “Fake Friends” available, listeners are beginning to get a clearer picture of what Ride Or Die could offer when it arrives later this year.
Nearly Three Decades Of New York Rock History
Although REACH NYC is preparing for a new album, the band’s history stretches back much further than these latest singles. Originally formed in Queens and Long Island in 1996, REACH NYC emerged from New York City’s influential post hardcore scene, performing at iconic venues including CBGB and Roseland Ballroom during the band’s early years.
They also shared stages with artists including Papa Roach, System of a Down, Cypress Hill, Helmet, P.O.D., Good Charlotte, The Used, Shinedown, Quicksand, and Evanescence while building a reputation as a hard hitting live act.
The band has also done festival appearances at Vans Warped Tour, Welcome To Rockville, Louder Than Life, and Aftershock. The momentum has further cemented REACH NYC’s reputation with rock audiences across multiple generations.
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