Music: “Black Box” Opens Automatic’s New Era

Automatic are a Los Angeles post-punk trio made up of Izzy Glaudini (synths, vocals), Lola Dompé (drums, vocals), and Halle Saxon (bass, vocals). Since releasing their debut album Signal in 2019, they’ve carved out a space as one of the most exciting bands in modern post-punk, blending minimalist synths, propulsive basslines, and hypnotic rhythms. In 2022, they shared the stage with Tame Impala, Parquet Courts, and IDLES, and released their critically acclaimed sophomore record Excess. Now, in 2025, they return with their third full-length Is It Now? on Stones Throw Records.

Opening Is It Now?, “Black Box” sets the tone for Automatic’s latest chapter. The track is dark, pulsing, and immediate — a hypnotic blend of motorik bass, sharp percussion, and icy synths. Its title evokes the idea of mystery, memory, and hidden truth, making the song feel like both a confession and a coded message. Black Box captures Automatic’s ability to turn tension into groove, pulling the listener into the album’s stark, urgent world from the very first note.

Band Page: https://www.instagram.com/automatic_band/