Fresh off Philadelphia’s resident underground tape label Super Wimpy Punch comes a new track from Boston local Broom of the System, also known as Persephone LiPuma. The dizzying, jangly bop “Water” is the single off the forthcoming tape Beet Pollen which is set for a March 31st release.

Gearing up for the tape’s release, Super Wimpy Punch and Broom of the System collaborated with Disposable America, Boston’s favorite cassette label (for true believers only,) for a livestream performance that took place on March 5th. The stream also featured performances by Community College, Erin Vadala, and Double Grave. Broom of the System’s upcoming project Beet Pollen was recorded over 2019-2020 with Brad Krieger at Big Nice Studio, who also recorded Horse Jumper of Love, Comco, Alexander, and other locals.  

“Water” is a chaotic rock track with a crunchy drumbeat and restless cymbals that crash against swelling synth organs and horns. LiPuma’s vocals dart between chill croons and booming screams. A particularly compelling moment is a switch halfway through the song where everything but the vocals and a twisty guitar riff cut out, and LiPuma sings “Guess I’m just the kind to confuse, all I want in life is what’s actually reachable.” Another high point is the imaginative lyricism; towards the beginning, LiPuma sings, “Blood on my face on the train” a scene that a seasoned MBTA passenger may find all too relatable.  The song comes in at just under 2 and a half minutes, leaving the listener wanting more. The song’s tumultuous energy feels fitting from a project that shares a name with David Foster Wallace’s debut novel, in which the main character deals with compounding crises that vary in absurdity. 

The track is an indicator of Broom of the System’s ability to create dynamic, lo-fi soundscapes that take the listener on a woozy trip through the storyteller’s perspectives and anxieties. To hear the full Beet Pollen tape pre-order your copy here through Super Wimpy Punch.