It’s been a few years since Somerville-based bedroom pop artist Stevie Subrizi released a new set of songs, but that doesn’t mean that some haven’t been stewing. On Friday of this week, Subrizi will drop a new EP, Accessories, and they’re holding a listening party on Thursday night. Good news – we’re all invited!
Accessories is five tracks of bedroom folk, all written and recorded by Subrizi, who dug their teeth in the early-10’s guitar duo The Crazy Exes From Hell. The songs were written during what Subrizi has called a “particularly gnarly mental health episode,” dating back to 2022. Indeed, the songs often take a grim tone lyrically. “I’m Already Dead” is the most upfront in its desolation, with Subrizi singing after their own passing, left for others to find. The other four tracks take a more ironic, poppier tone, though. “Like Bonnie & Clyde” is about the desire to find one last lover for a wild ride and go out like, well, Bonnie & Clyde. “Give Me Silence” meanwhile is an ode to being left alone in the wake of constant barrages of news updates and media releases, but the song takes on a grander stance against the machines churning these things out. The opener “Clothes” is about finding tidbits of self-appreciation amid loneliness, which in this case is wardrobe appreciation. The song is akin to – of all things – NoFX’s “Linoleum,” a love of the little that you’ve accumulated. The closer “Sweet Absence” is the most poetic tune of the bunch, a love letter to the absence of an empty apartment, a cherish of nothing.
Musically, these songs waver between indie and synth-pop influences. Subrizi covers all bases, handling vocals, guitar and synth duties (as well as occasional snapping and clapping). “Sweet Absence” and “Give Me Silence” are two synth-heavy tunes that give off bedroom pop vibes. “Clothes” and “I’m Already Dead” are more centered on electric guitar, but medium tempos and sparse production hint to folksier influences as well. “Like Bonnie & Clyde” is the most rollicking tune, the closest thing to a rock song on the EP and a nice burst of energy in the penultimate slot.
Accessories is officially out on Friday, May 3rd, but Subrizi is hosting a listening party the night before. During the stream, all five songs will be played, and Subrizi will host a general chat and Q&A about the tracks. Since this set of songs is particularly personal and vulnerable, there will likely be a lot of backstory woven in.
RSVP to the listening party and stream “Like Bonnie & Clyde” in advance of the EP’s release on Subrizi’s bandcamp. Not feeling very social? Stream and purchase the EP after Friday, May 3rd.