The Beta Lactams

Scranton, PA — January 26, 2026 — Scranton-based indie rock band The Beta Lactams have released the official music video for their new single, “Cicatrix,” a powerful and timely song exploring the trials faced by immigrants in America. The video is available now on all major platforms

Blending classic rock roots with modern indie sensibilities, The Beta Lactams draw sonic comparisons to The Flaming Lips, R.E.M., and Neil Young. Described by Electric City Magazine as “a cross between R.E.M. meets Wilco,” the band has built a reputation for emotionally resonant songwriting paired with textured, melodic arrangements. Formed in 2023, The Beta Lactams came together with a shared belief that they had a unique story to tell. Fronted by songwriter and lead vocalist Samuel Sebastianelli Jr., the band uses personal narratives to address broader social realities, a philosophy that sits at the heart of “Cicatrix.” “The motivation for the song came in the wake of the anti-immigration policies sweeping America, where lives are being disrupted and families torn apart,” says Sebastianelli. “Cicatrix is about the scars people carry—both seen and unseen— while trying to build a life in a place that doesn’t always welcome them.” Named after the Latin word for “scar,” Cicatrix pairs evocative lyrics with an expansive, emotionally charged soundscape, underscoring the resilience and humanity of its subject matter. The accompanying music video visually reinforces these themes, offering a poignant reflection on displacement, perseverance, and hope