Rock music's raw edge just got a fresh jolt of energy—imagine blending gritty anthems about life's toughest battles with a collaboration that hits right in the heart. That's the story behind SALIVA's latest single, 'Too Broke To Fix,' featuring the one and only Austin John Winkler from ex-HINDER fame. But here's where it gets controversial: Is this just another rock tune, or is it a bold call to confront mental health issues head-on in a genre often criticized for glossing over real pain? Stick around, because this partnership dives deep into themes that might surprise you—and the part most people miss could change how you see rock's emotional side.
Dated October 17, 2025, this exciting release comes hot on the heels of SALIVA's tour dates with EARSHOT, THE FOUNDER—where Winkler rocked alongside LYLVC—and now they're teaming up again. The track drops today through Judge & Jury Records, ready to stream on every major digital platform out there. For those new to the scene, SALIVA is a powerhouse in the alternative metal and nu-metal world, known for their high-energy, crowd-pumping sound that blends hard-hitting guitars with powerful vocals, much like bands that defined the early 2000s era of rock rebellion.
SALIVA's lead singer, Bobby Amaru, opens up about the single in a heartfelt way: 'This track really explores the depths of mental health struggles, questions of personal identity, and that constant teetering on the brink of losing control. It's all about hiding your pain behind a brave face, wandering through confusion, and desperately seeking purpose amid the turmoil. And don't shy away from asking: Is rock music the right place for such vulnerable confessions, or does it risk turning therapy into entertainment? Bringing Austin into the mix was pure fun. I've long admired his distinctive voice, and involving him felt like a no-brainer. He infuses the song with unfiltered passion and feeling—it's genuine, and I'm all in support of what he's conveying.'
Winkler chimes in with his own take, full of enthusiasm: 'Right from the title, 'Too Broke To Fix,' I was hooked—it resonated with so many moments in my own journey. When Bobby shared the track and I caught that killer opening guitar riff, I was totally engrossed. Team up with him was a fantastic experience, and together, our vocal styles really nail the unpolished honesty of the lyrics. We crafted something fiery that fans will love to jam out to. Can't wait to unleash it on stage live!'
Diving into SALIVA's history helps put this collaboration in perspective. Their big break came in 2001 with the album 'Every Six Seconds,' which soared to double platinum status, thanks to chart-topping hits like 'Click Click Boom' and the Grammy-nominated 'Your Disease'—tracks that showcased their signature style of anthemic, in-your-face lyrics paired with heavy riffs, perfect for beginners stepping into nu-metal's world of rebellion and rhythm. They built on that momentum with 'Back Into Your System,' a gold-certified album featuring standouts such as 'Always' and 'Raise Up,' plus the track 'Rest In Pieces' co-written with Mötley Crüe's Nikki Sixx, adding a layer of rock legend collaboration that's become a hallmark of their sound.
Even after founding vocalist Josey Scott exited the band in 2011, SALIVA kept evolving. Bobby Amaru stepped in as frontman over a decade ago, infusing the group with a modern vibe while honoring their working-class, blue-collar roots—think songs that speak to everyday grit and grind, like the anthems that got crowds headbanging at shows. Amaru's been the driving force behind recent projects, including 'Rise Up,' 'Love, Lies & Therapy,' '10 Lives,' the 'Every Twenty Years' EP, and their latest, 'Revelation.'
Tragedy struck shortly before 'Revelation's' release when guitarist Wayne Swinny passed away unexpectedly. The music video for 'Come Back Stronger' was actually shot just days prior, turning it into a poignant tribute. The album earned critical acclaim, with singles like 'Crows' and 'High On Me' climbing to the Top 20 on Billboard's Active Rock chart. To this day, the band pays tribute to 'Uncle Wayne' at every performance, keeping his spirit alive through their music.
Earlier this year, to mark the deluxe edition 'Revelation: Retold,' SALIVA unveiled a music video for 'Horizon,' starring Kevin Martin from Candlebox. This video celebrates their enduring legacy with exclusive footage of Swinny performing live and in the studio, offering fans a nostalgic yet emotional glimpse into the band's history. The deluxe album is out via Judge & Jury Records, an influential label and production outfit led by multi-platinum producer Howard Benson—who's worked with acts like My Chemical Romance and Seether—and Neil Sanderson from Three Days Grace. For newcomers, Judge & Jury is all about nurturing hard rock and metal talents with top-tier production, making it a fitting home for SALIVA's powerful sound.
SALIVA's current lineup includes Bobby Amaru on vocals, Brad Stewart on bass, Josh Kulack on guitar, Sebastian LaBar on guitar, and Sammi Jo Bishop on drums— a tight-knit crew delivering that signature SALIVA punch.
Photo credit: Jeff Mozey
What do you think—does music like this truly help break down stigmas around mental health, or is it just another way for rock stars to share their stories without real impact? Do you agree that collaborations like this keep classic bands relevant, or are they chasing trends? Share your thoughts below—we'd love to hear if you've been a SALIVA fan through the years or if this song resonates with your own experiences!
