American progressive rock band Happy The Man have released a political firecracker of a single through Invasion Merch. Consistently rated by critics and fans as one of the best “Prog Rock” bands, their new single is fiery, exciting, and pulls no punches in describing the stakes in our upcoming election.

This tune is a follow-up to their single “Only Love,” released on Martin Luther King Jr. Day, 2024. Written by Stanley Whitaker, that optimistic and unifying song pleaded for remembering our shared humanity. “Lock ’Em Up” is a more direct, gut-punch of a song.

Whitaker explains that he channeled what he sensed much of the public felt about the Presidential election. “We were horrified watching the erosion of democracy and the attack on truth. Real crimes were committed. I felt a rock and roll ‘fact check’ was needed because it would reach more people.”

Drummer Ron Riddle adds that the hypnotic groove uses a dual feel — straight eighth-notes layered with subtle swing undercurrents — creating tension and energy. The horn arrangements bring an unexpected lift that contrasts the intensity of the lyrics.

Bassist Rick Kennell, who mixed the track, says: “Stanley held nothing back, but I love how he used humor to mitigate the anger. The intro alone is seventeen different percussive instruments layered together. I carefully mixed and mastered this so the lyrics and the band’s energy could shine through strongly and brightly.”

Born out of the intensely creative art rock and fusion movements of the seventies, Happy The Man remains one of the most legendary progressive rock bands of all time. Their Arista releases “Happy The Man” (1977) and “Crafty Hands” (1978) are among the most respected albums in art-rock history.

One last thing: don’t just listen on headphones. Let this track roar out of real speakers — and please turn the subwoofer on.

— By Stephen Vivona