Blacktop (Album Release) • SSAANN • Shell Bells
Sat 09/02/23
6:00PM
All Ages
music
$12 ADV // $15 DOS
Show Lineup
Blacktop
(Milwaukee, WI)
Genre: Indie Rock
Blacktop is a Milwaukee-based independent writing and recording project formed by multi-instrumentalist and producer Austin Wood. With nearly all recording, mixing, and production being done in Wood’s home studio, the project embraces a DIY and analog approach to music creation. Resting gently between the genres of folk, surf rock, and dream pop, the music of Blacktop is adorned with soft-spoken vocals, washed-out guitars, and acoustic percussion/rhythmic elements. The project draws from a large pool of sonic influence, ranging from Ethiopian jazz and Latin rhythms of the 1960-70s to modern pop and alternative artists such as Khruangbin, Skinshape, Loving, and Sam Evian. The project’s inspirational core is rooted in spiritual and Zen philosophies of presence, mindfulness, and impermanence, from which the project often draws lyrical inspiration.
Originally starting as a solo recording project of Wood, Blacktop has grown to include Jordan Taylor (guitar), Jacob Olson of Hyer (bass), and Jacob Slade (drums) both in the studio and on stage. Blacktop is gaining traction, able to be heard through the airwaves on 88.9 Radio Milwaukee, and featured on Lilliput Record’s “Local Milwaukee Showcase”. The project’s second full-length release, “Gardening is a Practice, Not an Idea”, was released independently in September 2023 with a deluxe release through Nice Guys Records in February 2024.
SSAANN
(Milwaukee, WI)
Genre: Indie Rock
SSAANN is a 4-piece, indie dream pop band from Milwaukee. Their songs spotlight duets of atmospheric guitar and lush synth forming a spacey escape. Echoing vocals paired with reflective lyrics cast an illuminating sound to create an effortless, easy-going feel. Expect laid-back yet driving drums, big bass, and cascading keys to make you want to “run to the woods and call your mom”. Members: Melissa Simes (lead vocals/synth), Jack Lundeen (guitar), Tori Yocum (bass), and Ransom Nyhart (drums).
Shell Bells
(Milwaukee, WI)
Genre: Folk
A noetic amalgamation of indie folk, sunshine rock, neo soul, and sound healing psychedelia, Milwaukee sprite shell bells utilizes her intuitive imagination and tender heart to deliver her song babies straight from her soul. This fæ’s amorphous musical style uses guitar effects and vocals in cultivating a transcendental space ripe with playfulness. You’re invited to share in the sonic journeys of the ever-evolving, wholesome, vibe maker, shell bells.