Shady Bug are back, and they're doing it on one of the coolest labels around. The St. Louis crew have signed to Julia's War Recordings, the Philly imprint run by They Are Gutting A Body Of Water's Doug Dulgarian, teaming with Bee Side Cassettes for their new LP, "I wanted to be there." That's a big moment for a band who've been sharpening this fuzzed out, off kilter sound since 2018's "tanlines," a record full of woozy hooks and quiet gut punches.
Julia's War is on a ridiculous run lately. Recent gems from Total Wife, Mx Lonely, God Of War, and Melaina Kol prove the label knows exactly what it's doing.
First taste is "my night routine," a track that leans into everything Shady Bug do best: crooked melodies, warm noise, a little heartbreak underneath. It's a sleeper that keeps growing on you.
Two great labels, one great band, and an album worth clearing space for. Do not sleep on this one.