Exclusive album premiere of ‘Blurred Wires’ by the math-rock trio Upright Forms, out June 28, 2024, via SKiN GRAFT Records.

Nick Sakes, along with his bandmates bassist Noah Paster and drummer Shaun Westphal, recently opened up about their much-anticipated debut album, ‘Blurred Wires,’ in a joint interview. Sakes shared his love for “anthemic, tug-at-your-heartstrings kind of music,” a sentiment echoed by Paster and Westphal. For those familiar with Sakes’ extensive history with Skin Graft Records, his statement may come as a surprise. Over the past 30 years, Sakes has delivered a diverse array of music through various bands, including the precise prog-punk of Dazzling Killmen in the ’90s, the avant-rock of Colossamite, and the No Wave-inspired duo Xaddax in the 2010s.

However, Sakes’ musical repertoire extends beyond the aggressive and bizarre. This versatility was evident in Sicbay, a Minneapolis trio that released three albums of indie rock between 2001 and 2005. Blurred Wires seamlessly continues this thread, blending Sakes’ varied musical experiences with Paster’s adept songwriting and Westphal’s agile yet steady drumming. The album, a culmination of Sakes’ musical journey, features 10 succinct tracks that balance catchy hooks and smooth dynamics with the tension and dissonance characteristic of his earlier work.

<a href="https://uprightforms.bandcamp.com/album/blurred-wires">Blurred Wires by Upright Forms</a>

Nearly 35 years into his career, Sakes continues to push his creative boundaries. With Paster and Westphal, he has found musicians who excel in both the complex and the beautiful aspects of underground rock. Reflecting on their synergy, the trio agrees that their collaborative spirit is a key strength.

Headline photo: Adam Bubolz

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