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 the Milwaukee-based writing and recording project of multi-instrumentalist and producer, Austin Wood. Resting gently between the genres of folk, surf rock, and dream pop, Blacktop’s sound is adorned with soft-spoken vocals, washed-out guitars and synthesizers, acoustic percussion, and field recordings.
When not working full-time in public health or mixing/producing for other artists, Wood writes/records music for Blacktop while drawing inspiration from spiritual philosophies of presence, mindfulness, and impermanence. The project incorporates a DIY- and analog-based approach to music creation, embracing the creative limitations and hands-on experience of recording to tape. Sonically, Blacktop draws from a large pool of influence ranging from Ethiopian jazz and Latin rhythms of the 1960s-70s to contemporary artists such as Florist, Loving, Alice Phoebe Lou, and Sam Evian.
Wood is supported by Jordan Taylor, Jacob Olson, and Jacob Greenberg for live performances. Blacktop’s debut album, “Gardening is a Practice, Not an Idea”, was released independently in September 2023 with a deluxe re-release through Nice Guys Records in February 2024. Blacktop’s latest single, “So Blue”, is out now, with the project’s second album slated for June 2025.
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.