System76’s faux band Theliohead has returned with their second single, “Precision,” and once again they’ve fused the worlds of high-tech innovation and rock ‘n’ roll, pushing the boundaries of what a tech company can achieve creatively. Released as part of their Halloween sale and in celebration of the forthcoming launch of their latest Arm-powered desktop, Thelio Astra, this track and its accompanying music video are more than just promotional tools—they’re a reflection of System76’s commitment to artistry and craftsmanship.
“Precision” is aptly named, not only because of its connection to the finely engineered Thelio Astra but because of its polished sound and tight production. Penned by local Colorado songwriter Jonathan Hartstone, the track boasts a crisp, guitar-driven arrangement that feels fresh yet nostalgic. There’s an almost theatrical quality to the music, and it’s hard not to appreciate the playful energy coursing through the verses and choruses. But what sets this project apart is the synergy between the music and System76’s core ethos: an intersection of creativity, community, and technological prowess.
Theliohead’s music video is equally engaging, packed with humor and sharp visuals. Produced by Moxi, a Colorado-based video production company with a flair for comedy-music improv, the video introduces the Thelio Astra as the newest “member” of the band. It’s an imaginative and self-aware narrative that showcases not only the desktop’s powerful specs—NVIDIA GPUs, up to 512GB of RAM—but also System76’s fun and unconventional approach to marketing. After all, when was the last time you saw a computer as a rock star?
System76’s decision to collaborate with local talent speaks to their deep connection to the Colorado creative scene. Beyond the catchy tune and sleek visuals, there’s a broader story here about the fusion of high-tech innovation and artistry. Boulder’s Coupe Studios, which produced last year’s Pop-up Video-style single, returns with top-notch audio production, lending “Precision” a professional edge that rivals any major-label release.
As for the track itself, “Precision” hits all the right notes, combining infectious melodies with a sense of technical mastery that mirrors the performance of the machines it celebrates. It’s a clever and entertaining homage to System76’s unique handcrafted approach to building desktops, and it adds a bit of rock ‘n’ roll flair to their brand.
With “Precision,” Theliohead isn’t just promoting hardware—they’re establishing a cultural identity. By positioning their products as central characters in a broader creative narrative, System76 has once again shown that they’re not just a computer manufacturer, but a hub for creativity, local collaboration, and innovation.
Catch the band on their “Halloween Tour” from October 25 to November 29, where they’ll be premiering the music video at major tech events. It’s a unique opportunity to grab some free Theliohead merch, meet their desktop “stand-ins,” and witness firsthand how System76 continues to push boundaries in both the tech and creative realms.
