Archives:
The Chinkees
In June, The Chinkees released a four-song EP, marking their first new material since 2002. We spoke with singer Mike Park, (Asian Man Records founder, member of The Bruce Lee Band / Ogikubo Station) and talked about how the EP was recorded and what inspired some of its lyrics. We also addressed the band’s name, which of course is not meant to be offensive, but rather draw attention to the existence of racism. Additionally, we discussed the Black Lives Matter movement, the current political climate in the U.S. and more.
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Bruce Lee Band
In late October, the Bruce Lee Band released their latest EP, called Rental!! Eviction!! We spoke with singer Mike Park last week and discussed how it was written and recorded. We also talked about some of the song’s lyrics and their recent shows in San Francisco and Hawaii. On this recording, the band’s lineup consists Jeff Rosenstock on bass, Dan Potthast on keyboards and guitar, and Kevin Higuchi on drums, (Park is responsible for vocals and saxophone). Rental!! Eviction!! marks the band’s fifth release and it’s likely their most cohesive and catchiest to date. With lyrics that address a range of topics and the inclusion of various genres, this is an EP that’s sure to appeal to a wide audience.
Continue Reading…Smoking Popes
Below photos by Katie Hovland
Earlier this month, Smoking Popes released their latest full-length, called Into the Agony. We recently met up with lead guitarist Eli Caterer and discussed the new album at length. We spoke about the return of original drummer Mike Felumlee and how his involvement in many ways sparked the band to write new material. We also talked about the manner in which the album was recorded and their desire to capture more of a live feel. In doing so, there are moments on Into the Agony that are suggestive of the Popes’ first two LPs, but at the same time there’s a host of new influences present, including several political songs. Additionally, we addressed their upcoming show with Jawbreaker and Naked Raygun, their November tour dates and more. Continue Reading…
Colossal – “The Serious Kind”
Next month, Asian Man Records will release Colossal’s debut album, Welcome the Problems, for the first time on vinyl. The label initially released the full-length on CD in 2004. Colossal formed in Elgin, Illinois in 2001 and at the time of this recording their lineup consisted of singer/guitarist Pat Ford, guitarist/singer/trumpet player Jason Flaks, drummer/singer Rob Kellenberger and bassist Eli Caterer. When asked as to why this album is now being re-released, label owner Mike Park said “People kept asking me about it. The band never said a thing. It was strictly folks messaging me and asking if it would be released on vinyl. Originally, I didn’t do the vinyl for this. A small, now defunct label called Grey Flight Records did, so I wanted to have this in our discography.”
As part of this re-release, the record was fully remastered by Carl Saff. A total of 600 copies were pressed, with 300 on white vinyl and 300 on black. When speaking about why this album is special to him, Park said “Because I slept on it. When I first put this out, I wasn’t a big fan to be honest. I think I mostly originally put this out just because of my relationship with Rob Kellenberger and Slapstick. Basically, any member of Slapstick I would say ‘yes’ to whatever they brought to the table. And so that was the case with Colossal. I didn’t love it and that makes me angry because I listen to it now and go ‘geez…this shit is insane.’”
We’re streaming the album’s second track below, “The Serious Kind,” which exemplifies the band’s progressive arrangements and penchant for melody. Pre-order the record here and expect it to ship by mid-October.
Ogikubo Station – We Can Pretend Like
Asian Man Records – Release Date: 8/24/18
Next month, Ogikubo Station will release their debut full-length, called We Can Pretend Like. The band features Maura Weaver, (Mixtapes) and Mike Park, (Skankin’ Pickle, The Chinkees). While not sounding particularly similar to the aforementioned groups, this project is likely to be eagerly received by fans of heartfelt, melodic indie rock. The album begins with “I’ve Been Thinking of St. Louis,” a track that does an excellent job of setting the tone for what’s to follow. Its sparse arrangement allows for Weaver’s exceptional vocal performance to really shine through and highlight the lyrics, which alternate between a sense of reflection and an eye on the future, (a theme found throughout the record). The next song, “Take a Piece of All That’s Good,” is more of a full band effort and decidedly catchy without overtly trying to be. It includes a driving rhythm and dual vocals, and recalls a past relationship in hopes of making sense of what dissolved. “Drowning at the Watering Hole” is infectiously poppy, packed with ‘80s keyboards and sounds like a mix of The Cars and The Get Up Kids. It talks of missing an old friend when in unfamiliar surroundings and a desire to let that person know you still care.
The title track takes a softer and more acoustic-based turn, with vulnerable vocals that reflect the sensitive nature of the lyrics. Weaver sings, “If you stand still, nothing will change / When you can’t let go, it’ll eat you whole,” and with these words she seemingly captures what’s at the heart of this record. On “Strong as You,” Park assumes lead vocals and delivers a very personal and somber account of his father’s battle with cancer. It seamlessly transitions into “Weak Souls Walk Around Here,” a rock-tinged entry that contains some of Park’s strongest vocals and arguably the album’s most memorable chorus. The record appropriately wraps up with “Let the World Know,” a song that turns its gaze outward, examining the current landscape and calling for change. In times such as these, a desire for positivity, compassion and a better existence is something that likely resonates with nearly everyone.
With We Can Pretend Like, Ogikubo Station has produced a collection of songs that vary in style, yet also maintain a sense of cohesion. On the surface, the songwriting is rather straightforward and unforced, but multiple listens reveal layers of detail and intricacies. There’s an emphasis on unique vocal arrangements and earnest lyrics, which help to form the foundation of what is a very promising and complete album. For those wanting to get in on the ground floor, you can preorder the record here.
Hard Girls – Floating Now
Asian Man Records – Release Date: 10/06/17
San Jose’s Hard Girls recently released their latest album on Asian Man Records, called Floating Now. Having spent a majority of the last several years touring with the likes of Say Anything, Modern Baseball and AJJ, it’s apparent that the time on the road has assisted in Hard Girls advancing their sound. With influences ranging from post-punk to ‘90s alternative, Floating Now is a distinctive record and one that’s further reinforced by the versatile production of Jack Shirley, (Joyce Manor, Jeff Rosenstock). Album opener “Field ‘99” uses a substantial amount of fuzz and a marching rhythm to build intensity before segueing to “Puddle of Blood,” arguably the record’s catchiest track. Sounding as though Weezer was to play a beer-soaked basement party with significantly more brawn and without all the hang-ups, “Puddle…” is a straightforward banger that improves with every listen. “Guadalupe on the Banks of the Styx” is one of the most detailed and layered songs that Hard Girls has ever written, with lyrics that address the ongoing class-divide in their hometown. It’s perhaps the best example of the band’s progression and hopefully an indication of where their music is headed in the future. “Dizzy Wizard” is a speedy, shimmering indie rock song that underscores the guitar prowess of frontman Mike Huguenor, while album closer “Running” highlights the unpredictable yet surefooted rhythm section of singer/bassist Morgan Herrell and drummer Max Feshbach. It’s really an ideal ending, complete with contemplative lyrics, unique vocal harmonies and boundless energy. Floating Now is unquestionably Hard Girls’ finest effort to date, combining first-rate songwriting with outstanding performances. It would likely appeal to any fan of melodic rock, as well as those in search of genre-defying music.
Great Apes
Photo by Katie Hovland
This Friday, San Francisco’s Great Apes will release their second full-length via Asian Man Records, called California Heart. We spoke with singer/guitarist Brian Moss about the album’s writing process and its concept. We also talked in detail about what it was like recording with Jack Shirley, as well as where the record’s title comes from, its overall style and more. This album finds the band combining heavier elements with pop tendencies to create a wide-ranging, complete punk record that redefines their sound. If for some reason you haven’t previously listened to Great Apes, do yourself a favor and check them out now. Continue Reading…
V/A – Asian Man Music for Asian Man…
Asian Man Records – Release Date: 6/10/16
Last month, Asian Man Records celebrated its 20th anniversary and also released a new compilation, titled Asian Man Music for Asian Man People Vol. 2. It features artists on the label’s roster covering other Asian Man bands, and primarily showcases up-and-coming acts. One of the first noteworthy tracks comes from Scotland’s Murderburgers and their cover of the AJJ tune “Self Esteem.” It’s a decidedly pop punk take on the song and is filled with hooks and well-placed backing vocals. If it’s any indication of what’s to come on their upcoming full-length, then fans should certainly be excited for the record’s release this fall. San Francisco’s Great Apes provide a blistering, lightning-fast interpretation of “Last Strike,” originally by Classics of Love. It emphasizes rawness and ferocity despite being precisely arranged, and is yet another example of how talented this seriously underrated band is. Chicago’s Dowsing delivers an inspired and distinctive take on the Alkaline Trio classic “San Francisco,” which is sure to remind old school fans of why they fell in love with the band in the first place. Laura Stevenson selected another renowned Chicago band to cover in Smoking Popes, contributing a compelling, stripped-down interpretation of their fan-favorite “Do Something.” Additional highlights include covers by Kevin Seconds, Modern Baseball, Jeff Rosenstock and Spraynard. This compilation is recommended for those wanting to relive some of their favorite Asian Man memories, as well as those looking to become familiar with several of the label’s emerging and talented bands.
MU330
Photo by Katie Hovland
Last month, MU330 played Chicago and opened for Streetlight Manifesto at the Concord Music Hall. We caught up with the band afterwards to talk about what’s led to them playing more frequently as of late. We spoke with singer/guitarist Dan Potthast and also discussed what he enjoys most about playing with the band, some his favorite memories from playing shows in Chicago and abroad, and how he still makes time for MU330 between his solo work and other projects. Additionally, we conversed about a new song that the band recorded earlier this year, their plans for the future and more. Continue Reading…
Dowsing
This Friday, Dowsing will release its third full-length and first for Asian Man Records, titled Okay. We recently caught up with singer/guitarist Erik Czaja and guitarist Mikey Crotty to talk about the album in detail, (the band’s lineup is rounded-out by bassist Michael Politowicz and drummer William Lange). We discussed what it was like writing and recording the record, as well as the story behind its title. We also spoke about some of the album’s lyrics, their upcoming tour and more. Be sure to check out a song from the record after the interview, called “Dissolve.” Continue Reading…
Dan Andriano in the Emergency Room
Photo by Katie Hovland
Last month, the second full-length from Dan Andriano in the Emergency Room was released by Asian Man Records. Entitled Party Adjacent, the album is much more of a collaborative, full-band effort than the first Emergency Room record. We spoke with Dan about how he brought together this group of musicians and what it was like working with producer Jeff Rosenstock. We also talked about how this project compares to Dan’s principal gig as the singer/bassist for Alkaline Trio. Also discussed was the album’s writing and recording process, the meaning behind some of its songs, future touring plans and more. Continue Reading…
Dan Potthast
Photo by Katie Hovland
Dan Potthast, best known as the singer/guitarist of MU330, recently embarked on the “Dan P. Living Room Tour 2014.” The nationwide trek began in early June and will conclude in August, and we caught up with Dan shortly after he played Chicago to discuss the tour. We talked about what inspired this journey, how it was planned and what some of the shows have been like so far. We also spoke about his latest solo album, My Living Room, which came out in conjunction with the tour. Additional topics discussed include Dan’s other music projects, future plans and more. Continue Reading…
The Queers
In February of this year, pop punk legends The Queers played two shows at Township on Valentine’s Day. Due to bad weather, the band arrived late and our interview was understandably postponed. Over the next couple months, we corresponded with singer/guitarist Joe Queer before ultimately connecting for a phone interview. Once we caught up with Joe, we talked about The Queers’ decision to play their album Love Songs for the Retarded in its entirety at the Township shows. We discussed that record in greater detail, and did the same for their classic Don’t Back Down album. We also spoke about the band’s relationship with Asian Man Records, the formation of a possible new band featuring Joe, Ben Weasel and Richie Ramone, The Queers’ plans to re-record a pair of their old records, and much more. Continue Reading…
Great Apes
Photo by Katie Hovland
This fall, Great Apes will release their debut full-length, entitled Thread, via Asian Man Records and Side With Us Records. The band plays a straightforward style of melodic punk, that’s highlighted by earnest vocals and skilled musicianship. For a relatively new band, they display a surprising amount of versatility and confidence. In short, Thread is one hell of an introductory album that’s not to be overlooked. We recently met with singer/guitarist Brian Moss and talked about the writing and recording of their record. We also discussed their summer tour with All Eyes West, why they’re eager to work with Asian Man, and more. Lastly, be sure to check out an exclusive stream of the song “The Edge of the Western World” at the end of the interview. Continue Reading…
The Wild – Dreams Are Maps
Asian Man Records – Release Date: 5/21/13
The Wild play an earnest brand of folk punk that emphasizes personal storytelling with political undertones. They utilize a male/female vocal approach, along with instruments like banjo and harmonica, to create a truly distinctive sound. Over the past couple of years the band has toured extensively, honing their craft and drawing inspiration from new places, and the end result is arguably their best material yet. Dreams Are Maps was produced by Laura Jane Grace of Against Me! and she did a great job of capturing the spirit of each song, as well as the overall mood of the album. The record opens with “There’s a Darkness,” which somewhat serves as The Wild’s call to arms. It encapsulates all of the band’s strengths and talks about maturing and isolation, but still ends on a positive note. “New Bedford” is a compelling tale of illegal immigration and the need for immediate reform. It’s almost as if the song’s music was especially composed around its lyrics, with the instruments exercising patience and taking turns, thereby allowing for the message to really hit home. Without a doubt, it’s one of the album’s most unforgettable tracks. While The Wild’s sound is mostly entrenched in folk, they also allow for their punk side to breakthrough on several of the record’s entries. “Riverside” and “Cut from the Cloth” both feature hurried tempos and shout-along choruses, with the latter clocking in at barely over one minute. On Dreams Are Maps, The Wild sound confident, grown-up and ready for a broader audience. Check out the song “New Bedford” below and familiarize yourself with one of the most promising acts on Asian Man’s roster.
[audio:http://www.jadedinchicago.com/wp-content/uploads/2013/05/04-04-New-Bedford-a-Better-Life.mp3|titles=“New Bedford (A Better Life)”]
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