The Erly, a four-piece ensemble hailing from Niles, Michigan, is proud to announce the release of their highly-anticipated LP titled Culture Fever. This record is set to take listeners on a sonic rollercoaster through the realms of Jazz-Rock, Disco, Soul, Roots-Rock, and Adult/Contemporary genres. Female empowerment, mental health struggles, identity, and several other complex themes are woven into the lyrics and instrumentation on this record, creating an unparalleled depth to The Erly’s sonic profile.
Culture Fever boasts a total of 11 captivating tracks featuring vocals from each member of the band – including Alyssa (keys), Collin (bass), Trevor (guitar), and Fran (drums). The LP was meticulously crafted in 2022 at Dr. Richard’s Audio in Valparaiso, Indiana. Under the guidance of producer Nick Rapley (known for his work with Bartees Strange and Lizzie No), The Erly expanded their sound beyond the confines of a typical four-piece band. The addition of horn and string arrangements, expertly arranged by Harris Karlin and Brian Moore, brought a rich and dynamic dimension to the LP. Notably, the band collaborated with horn and string players from eight different cities, ensuring that every instrument and sound on the album was produced by a human being.
“We took our time to craft songs that will impact the listener sonically, as well as deliver an emotional punch lyrically.”
This LP is like a breath of fresh air, transporting listeners to the nostalgic aura of the 1970s. These songs represent the kind of music that makes you want to take the long way home on a warm summer night. Guitar-driven Jazz Rock tracks like “Flame the Main” and “Faces in the Attic” were written to tackle unsettling feelings of resentment, addiction, and avoidance coping. “Take it As it Goes” and “Tracing Circles” reflect the sentiment of yearning for “something more” in everyday life. “Paralyzed” and “Somewhere in My Mind” bring culture and soul into this record, throwing it back to the iconic Disco era of the 1970s. Rounding out the LP with some down-to-earth melodies, “The Right Way” and “Red Roof Inn” tug at the heartstrings with smooth rhythms and harmonies.
