Zero Cost’s debut album, Will & Testament, is the culmination of five years of writing, recording and refining. Blending brand new material with remastered versions of previously released tracks, the album captures the band’s evolution, both musically and lyrically, while presenting the definitive collection of their work to date.
Across fourteen songs, Will & Testament explores the tension between the personal and the political. It moves from introspective reflections on identity, mental health and perseverance to sharp observations on inequality, conflict, environmental decline and the human cost of political decisions. Throughout, Zero Cost balance frustration and anger with empathy and hope, never losing sight of the resilience that runs through the record’s core.
Opening with the personal resolve of Will, the album examines the everyday struggles that shape our lives. Songs such as The Outer Limits, Equanimity and The Test confront anxiety, self doubt and the pressure to simply keep going, while Moving Up offers a heartfelt message of encouragement, urging the next generation to ignore cynicism, embrace individuality and forge their own path.
Elsewhere, the band’s social conscience comes to the fore. Armchair Apathist, Mouths To Feed and Insular Worlds challenge complacency, inequality and the tendency to overlook the suffering of others, while Proxy Wars, No Way Home and Finem Ludum turn their attention to war, displacement, climate change and the global consequences of political power. Eviction Notice channels frustration into a call for accountability and renewal, refusing to accept that the status quo is inevitable.
Closing with the reflective Testament, the album ultimately arrives at a message of acceptance and determination. While acknowledging regret, loss and uncertainty, it affirms the importance of personal growth, compassion and collective resilience. Rather than offering easy answers, Will & Testament asks difficult questions about the world we live in and the legacy we choose to leave behind.
Driven by melodic punk energy, memorable hooks and socially conscious songwriting, Will & Testament stands as Zero Cost’s most ambitious release yet: a record rooted in lived experience, fuelled by conviction and united by the belief that, even in difficult times, we are stronger when we face the future together.
The album will be officially released on CD and digital formats on 24th July in time for the launch gigs Zero Cost will be playing, and you can pre-order your copy of the CD now.
Digital streaming here: https://vm.group/will-and-testament-2dm-8
There will also be a limited edition lathe-cut coloured vinyl available to pre-order soon.
