Archives: August 2020
Bob Nanna
In July, Bob Nanna, (Braid, Hey Mercedes, Lifted Bells) released a solo album called Celebration States. We recently caught up with Bob and discussed the record’s concept, which details a significant event in his personal life. We also talked about the album’s unique recording process, as it was completed in a single day. In addition, we conversed about the decision to make an all-acoustic record, his newfound partnership with New Granada Records, future plans and more.
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Strike Anywhere – Nightmares of the West
Pure Noise Records – Release Date: 7/17/20
Last month, Strike Anywhere released an EP called Nightmares of the West. It represents their first new music since 2009 and not only picks up right where they left off, but also sounds as urgent as ever. The first song, “Documentary,” is a great example of the band’s classic, melodic hardcore sound. Its chorus is led by singer Thomas Barnett and its lyrics act as a rallying cry, (“We deserve to fight for everyone / For all that we’ve lost, for all that we are”). The next entry, “Dress the Wounds,” is aggressive and fast-paced, and its precision tempo stops and starts on a dime. “The Bells” is the most melodic song on the EP and features catchy guitar leads that are interwoven with the vocal melodies. Its lyrics talk of revolution and really couldn’t be more relevant, (“No one forgets / No one remembers at all / Till monuments fall”). “Imperium of Waste” opens with a riff that complements the lead vocals and slowly builds in intensity. The rest of the band comes crashing in after a couple measures and sounds nothing short of supercharged. The virtual wall of vocals in the chorus is both powerful and inspiring, resulting in what is likely the record’s most memorable moment. Nightmares of the West takes what Strike Anywhere does best and adds subtle contemporary influences. It also manages to capture the immense energy of their live shows, which is no easy feat. Hopefully the wait won’t be too long before they’re back with a new full-length.
The Webstirs – “Fiction”
This fall, Chicago’s The Webstirs will release their sixth full-length. The self-titled album was produced by longtime collaborator Matt Allison and finds the band continuing to develop their signature indie-pop sound. The Webstirs were formed in 1994 by Preston Pisellini and Mark Winkler. Their lineup also includes drummer Jordan Kozer, and newest members Gregg Juhlin, (bass) and Doug Bobenhouse, (guitar/vocals). Bobenhouse contributed with some of the songwriting on this record, which added a new dimension and helped to further evolve their sound. Check out the video for the first single below, called “Fiction,” and look for the album to be released in the coming months.
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