by Dan Goldin (@post_trash_)
Earlier this year, David Settle (formerly of Ex-Breathers and currently of Big Heet and Psychic Flowers… in addition to the fantastic Under The First Floor Podcast) formed a new band called The Fragiles, just in case he wasn’t doing enough. While Settle’s music has always veered closer to blown-out post-hardcore and noisy punk, his vast range of influences has positioned his latest project with a decidedly jangle-pop aura, one driven by the days of Flying Nun Records, Cleaners From Venus, and early Yo La Tengo. Due out December 6th via Living Lost Records, the self titled album was recorded and performed entirely by Settle in his basement to cassette (presumably the same set up as the podcast). It’s a gorgeous and well crafted lo-fi album, with subtle hooks and interwoven charm that gets better with each repeated listen.
Having already shared “City Nights” and “Dunedin Dark” (available at the Bandcamp link above), The Fragiles’ third single “Everybody Hurts Video” is a fantastic addition to their pre-release glimpse into the record. Opening with a hypnotic and psychedelic groove, the low rumble feels both warm and sinister, like a bad trip gone good. Seemingly about R.E.M.’s “Everybody Hurts” video continuously playing in Settle’s mind, there’s an anxious energy to balance out the relaxed melody. Primarily built on motorik punk, the song feels loose and breezy, like a passing chemtrail of washed out colors and sustained reverb.
The Fragiles recently played their first show and the band have another one coming up on December 7th at Plantasia in Philadelphia with The Goodbye Party and Paper Bee.