Back in April we shared ‘Scabs‘, the first new song from Speedy Ortiz in five years, which we described as a “wryly humorous and downright furious attack on those whose activism starts and ends with empty words and public gestures.” The single was the first from Rabbit Rabbit, a brand new full-length coming next month via Wax Nine Records which finds Sadie Dupuis and co. at their most searing and expansive. Long time touring members Andy Molholt (guitar), Audrey Zee Whitesides (bass), Joey Doubek (drums) are welcomed into the fold as full contributors for the first time, and the result sees them draw on influences like post-hardcore and alternative metal to find the perfect balance between weight and melody.
As ‘Scabs’ suggested, the record sees Dupuis explore large issues with a personal eye, and latest single ‘Ghostwriter’ is perhaps the most direct example. A song which focuses on a central tension of being alive and active within the contemporary moment. Because while anger is the only logical response to a world marked by widespread injustice and climate-based catastrophe, it is also an exhausting emotion to live with. The risk is getting caught between stations, too angry to rest, too tired to act, and here Dupuis attempts to navigate the experience in manner which might allow for some degree of longevity. “While ‘Ghostwriter’ ruminates on the horrible realities that stoke my anger,” she explains, “it’s also about trying to live with less rage in the day-to-day. And not always succeeding, but not getting mad about that, either. And sometimes directing that angry adrenaline toward positive actions.”
The track comes complete with a video directed by Alex Ross Perry which features a whole host of guest appearances. From musicians like Ted Leo, Spencer Peppet (The Ophelias), Nicola Leel (Doe/Customer), Kate Meizner (Jobber) and Zoë Brecher (Sad13/Bruce Springsteen), to authors such as Rax King, Amy Rose Spiegel and merritt k, through to cartoonist Jason Adam Katzenstein and comedians Josh Gondelman and Emily Panic. Not to mention fellow United Musicians and Allied Workers organizers Spencer Compton and Marshall Moran. See who you can spot in the crowd below:
Rabbit Rabbit will be released on the 1st September via Wax Nine Records and you can pre-order it now.
