Scranton, Pennsylvania has birthed a new force in rock music: University Drive. What began as the solo vision of Edward Cuozzo in 2016 has blossomed into a cohesive powerhouse band, now featuring Angelo Maruzzelli (guitar, vocals), Ryan Grutt (bass, vocals), Tony Kruszka (drums), and Mark Naples (guitar). Their EP, “First Stage Separation” released on May 2, 2025 captures a pivotal moment for the group, marking their first true collaborative songwriting effort. More than just a collection of songs, this record embodies the band’s artistic evolution and their dream realized: recording at the iconic Electrical Audio in Chicago, under the seasoned eye of engineer Greg Norman. Now, let’s take a deep dive into “First Stage Separation.”
“Forget Me, Not” kicks off the EP with a storm of jagged guitar riffs and pounding drums, immersing us in the band’s tension-filled soundscape. Edward Cuozzo’s vocals are raw yet emotive, walking the line between vulnerability and defiance as he navigates themes of memory, loss, and the fear of being forgotten. The band’s performance is urgent, tight, and uncompromising, setting a compelling tone for the journey ahead.
In “Hollow Sweetness,” University Drive explores the bittersweet dichotomy of love and emptiness. The instrumentation leans into dynamic shifts, weaving melodic hooks through abrasive textures. Angelo Maruzzelli’s backing vocals add layers of depth and contrast, complementing Cuozzo’s impassioned delivery. The song’s chorus swells with a haunting, almost cathartic quality, highlighting the band’s matured songwriting craft.
“Spin Out” is a frenetic, whirlwind experience. It perfectly captures the feeling of losing control and being overwhelmed by internal chaos. Mark Naples’ guitar work here stands out with jagged riffs that carve through the mix, while Tony Kruszka’s drumming drives the song’s relentless momentum. The interplay between aggression and melody embodies the EP’s core aesthetic, showcasing the band’s ability to balance intensity with nuance.
With “All The Way Down,” University Drive slows the pace slightly, delving into themes of descent and self-reflection. The bass by Ryan Grutt holds a powerful presence, anchoring the track with a deep groove. The vocal delivery is introspective and haunting, drawing you into a narrative of surrender and reckoning. The layered guitars build an immersive atmosphere that underscores the song’s emotional weight.
“Decades Lost” feels like a reflective piece on time’s passage and the weight of personal history. Here, the band’s collaborative spirit shines, with nuanced arrangements that ebb and flow gracefully. The instrumentation feels spacious yet intense, allowing the vocals to carry a nostalgic poignancy. The songwriting maturity is evident in this track’s balance of complexity and accessibility.
Finally, “Final Flash” closes the EP with a burst of explosive energy. It’s a cathartic release of all the tension built throughout the previous tracks; a chaotic and controlled sonic explosion. The dual guitars trade off blistering solos, the rhythm section pulses with fierce precision, and the vocals reach a climactic intensity. This final track cements First Stage Separation as a bold statement of University Drive’s artistic identity.
Edward Cuozzo’s vocal presence throughout the EP is striking. His voice conveys a wide emotional spectrum, from fragile introspection to roaring defiance. The addition of backing vocals by Angelo Maruzzelli and Ryan Grutt enriches the sound, creating harmonies that add texture without diluting the band’s edge.
Instrumentally, University Drive is tight and energetic, perfectly capturing the urgency of their live performances. The interplay between the guitars of Angelo Maruzzelli and Mark Naples is especially compelling, combining discordant riffs with melodic flourishes. Tony Kruszka’s drumming is precise yet wild when needed, anchoring the group with power and finesse. Ryan Grutt’s bass adds depth and groove, rounding out the sonic landscape.
Recorded at Electrical Audio with engineer Greg Norman, the EP boasts a natural, high-fidelity production that emphasizes authenticity over polish. The sound is organic; every instrument occupies its space with clarity, allowing the band’s raw energy to come through unfiltered. The production aesthetic aligns perfectly with the band’s influences, honoring the gritty, live-in-the-room vibe championed by Steve Albini’s legacy. This approach amplifies the EP’s emotional impact, making it feel like a genuine snapshot of a band at the height of creative collaboration and personal expression.
In conclusion, “First Stage Separation” is a milestone for University Drive, capturing a band stepping fully into their collective power and potential. From Scranton’s underground scene to the hallowed halls of Electrical Audio, University Drive delivers a raw, urgent, and deeply human rock experience. This EP is a must-listen, signaling the arrival of a band ready to make their mark on the wider rock landscape. As I am hungry for music that pulses with authenticity and unfiltered passion, University Drive is a band I’ll want to keep on my radar.
Listen to the “First Stage Separation” on Spotify
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