Last month, Teenage Bottlerocket released their latest full-length, Stay Rad! It marks the band’s first album of new material since the unexpected passing of founding drummer Brandon Carlisle in 2015. We spoke with Brandon’s brother, singer/guitarist Ray Carlisle, and discussed the circumstances surrounding the creation of this record. We talked about when the band felt that it was an appropriate time to start writing again, how they found new drummer Darren Chewka and what it was like recording without Brandon. We also covered their extensive touring schedule this year, what they’ve got planned for the future and more. Stay Rad! contains the youthful energy and humor that Teenage Bottlerocket is known for, but also adds layered songwriting and the inclusion of new influences. The resulting album is one that finds the band sounding assured and ready to move forward with the next chapter in their career.
Originally a printed zine from 1998 – 2004, our goal is to provide coverage of Chicago’s expansive independent music community, and to occasionally highlight some of our past work. National and international bands will be featured as well, but above all, we hope to create lasting content for music fans everywhere.
Writer: Bill Denker
Contact: jadedinchicago@gmail.com