This release is in conjunction with Back to the Light ... album in 2022!
These two songs ... well, an instrumental demo for "Permanent Collection" had been around since 2019, a collaboration that never came together (I suppose this track would be the germ of the Blindcopy idea, really). I had recorded a podcast episode with Chris (what a guy! what a legend!) and the door was open to send him something and if he heard himself in it ... he was super enthusiastic about it and that was that. The other collaborators were no-brainers. Dan went wild on this thing with guitar and drums, J.D. did his thing and played a high bass track inspired by Ned's Atomic Dustbin. And really, why not have two more bassists on the track? Bellhead are great. Easy choice.
"Hard Times" was actually the easiest time I've had with the project. I threw the demo J.D.'s way and he was inspired rather instantly (I think). Sent back a great lyric and vocal, a synth, some guitar, AND drums. Then on top of it Matt from Arthhur got in on it. Then finally, independent of the "Chicago branch" and their work, I got Jimmy (Melodywhore) in on it and he took the synth work to the next level.
Graham Burks (Loose Opinions) had a great idea for a remix and a lush synthy psychedelia was born.
I messed around and created a dub and a longer, more abrasive mix of the song. Heir apparent to Adrian Sherwood? Probably not, but it turned out quite well.
-J. Robot
released September 1, 2021
Track 1 (written by Alberson/Connelly/Milligan/Reager/Righeimer/Russia):
Chris Connelly - vocals & lyrics
Dan Milligan - drums, guitars
J.D. Reager - monosynth, melodic bass
Karen Righeimer - low bass
Ivan Russia - chorus lead bass
J. Robot - programming
Track 2 (written by Alberson/Ciani/Reager/Reyna):
J.D. Reager - vocals, guitars, live drums
Matt Ciani - guitar
Melodywhore - programming
J. Robot - programming
Track 3 remixed by Loose Opinions
looseopinions.bandcamp.com
Tracks 4 & 5 remade/remodeled by Blindcopy
Art direction by Whitney Flaherty for Anarchic Apertures
Thanks to the family, thanks to the DJs, thanks to the ears. All praise the noise!