Tony Hawk's Pro Skater 3 + 4: A New Era of Music Discovery

Beyond Algorithms: Your Personal Mixtape for Summer Shredding

A Skateboarding Legacy Reborn with a Fresh Beat

The latest iteration of the iconic Tony Hawk's Pro Skater series has arrived, meticulously crafted by Iron Galaxy to evoke the cherished memories of early 2000s skateboarding. This pseudo-remake masterfully blends the thrill of familiar skateparks with exciting new additions, ensuring a captivating experience for both long-time fans and newcomers. Crucially, it brings back the raw energy of punk rock that defined the original games, while significantly expanding its musical horizons.

The Soundtrack Revolution: More Than Just Tunes

While some traditionalists may favor the classic tracks, the new musical selections represent a significant enhancement to the game. This diverse collection of songs seamlessly integrates with the high-octane gameplay, offering a rich tapestry of sounds that includes contemporary hip-hop and dynamic punk. For many, this innovative soundtrack serves as a superior music discovery platform compared to conventional streaming services, providing a thoughtfully curated playlist that transcends algorithmic suggestions, feeling like a personalized compilation from Tony Hawk himself.

Jeff Rosenstock: The Enduring Spirit of Punk

Even prior to this remake's announcement, enthusiasts envisioned the inclusion of Jeff Rosenstock in a Tony Hawk title. A revered figure in the New York punk scene, Rosenstock’s journey from bands like The Arrogant Sons of Bitches to a flourishing solo career has garnered a devoted following. His track, 'Head,' featured in the game, epitomizes the vibrant punk ethos that aligns perfectly with the game's energy, offering a gateway to his extensive and impactful discography.

Vince Staples: Echoes of California Hip-Hop

The Tony Hawk games have always celebrated not only skate culture but also the vibrant essence of California, the birthplace of Tony Hawk's legendary career. Continuing this tradition, the Pro Skater series' soundtracks pay homage to Los Angeles-based artists, now embracing a broader spectrum of genres including hip-hop. Vince Staples, a prominent rapper from Long Beach, contributes his influential 2015 single, 'Norf Norf,' to the game. This track, instrumental in his ascent to widespread recognition, offers a compelling entry point into his acclaimed debut album, 'Summertime '06,' for those eager to delve deeper into his work.

Danny Brown: A Distinctive Voice in Hip-Hop

Danny Brown stands out as an artist with an unmistakable sound. His unique vocal delivery has made him instantly recognizable, even to those unfamiliar with his name. Before achieving mainstream success with albums like 'XXX' and 'Old,' the Detroit rapper established himself through collaborations with artists such as El-P and Ab-Soul. Transitioning from a featured artist to a headline act, Brown has continuously pushed his artistic boundaries with each new release. While his recent collaborative work with JPEGMafia in 'Scaring the Hoes' showcases his experimental side, 'Old' remains an excellent starting point for new listeners.

Fontaines D.C.: The Ascendant Rock Phenomenon

Among the emerging talents featured in the game's soundtrack, Fontaines D.C. is experiencing a rapid rise to prominence. This Irish rock quintet has consistently impressed critics since their 2019 debut, 'Dogrel,' which includes 'Boys in the Better Land,' a standout track in Tony Hawk’s Pro Skater 3 + 4. Their momentum significantly accelerated with the release of 'Romance' last year, achieving considerable commercial success. Their track 'Starburster' gained widespread recognition as the theme for the Borderlands 4 trailer at last year's Game Awards and also serves as the title song for Paramount Plus's 'Mobland.' Expect to see more of their music integrated into video games in the near future.

Wavves: A Nostalgic Nod to Blog Rock

Tony Hawk’s Pro Skater 3 + 4 acts as a vivid time capsule, transporting players back to the early 2000s, while also evoking the "blog rock" era around 2008. During this period, influential music outlets nurtured the careers of bands like Wavves, a San Diego-based project led by songwriter Nathan Williams. Their debut album, 'King of the Beach,' perfectly encapsulates the energetic spirit of blog rock, spearheaded by the dynamic surf-punk title track now featured in the game. While this album remains a highlight, Wavves continues to produce vibrant music, with their latest album, 'Spun,' released in late June, maintaining their signature lively sound.

X-Ray Spex: Honoring the Punk Pioneers

While Tony Hawk’s Pro Skater 3 + 4 celebrates contemporary artists, it also pays tribute to the foundational figures of punk rock. The inclusion of 'Identity' by X-Ray Spex, a fiercely energetic track, is particularly noteworthy. This short-lived British punk band, fronted by the influential Poly Styrene, significantly impacted the 90s riot grrrl movement in America. For those new to their work, 'Germfree Adolescents' stands as a quintessential punk album, featuring raw guitar riffs that laid the groundwork for many bands that would later become staples in the Pro Skater universe.