Slothpop Calls it Quits

Yesterday brought news of the break up of Indianapolis-based Slothpop. The musical project lasted just three short years. However, the seriousness that the band brought to their lone, self-titled LP resulted in a release with a depth and maturity that elevated the expectations for Indy’s tiny, but talented independent music scene. Regardless of what the future entails for the band’s various members, Slothpop’s contribution will have a lasting impact.

“It was like we needed something to just make it feel worth doing, something to re-inspire us and remind us that there’s a reason to be doing all of this,” bassist Drew Malott told NUVO in an interview preceding the album’s release party at Radio Radio.

The band alerted fans to the news of their impending separation in a statement via Facebook, saying:

Dearest loves,
Slothpop is officially calling it off. It has been an amazing three years and we want to thank you all for your love and support. We couldn’t have done it without you. Here’s our official video for Kokoro made by the amazing Know No Stranger crew. We love you. adieu.

The announcement comes as a significant blow to a tight-knit community of musicians that call Indianapolis home. I can only speak to my own sentiments, but Slothpop’s debut had a richness and weight that felt bigger than a local release. This was not the fuzzy clangings of your neighbor’s garage band. Kristin Newborn’s prowess on vocals is as formidable as any in this city. Her talent, blended with one helluva supporting cast and the vision of “seventh member” Andy Fry of Queensize Studios, made for a potent combination. For evidence, check out the aptly titled opening track “One”, here:

Though the album was recorded without the support of a label, its production was characterized by a boldness and ambition of a major studio release. In some ways, the writing was on the wall from the outset. Beneath the track listing on Slothpop’s Bandcamp page, songwriting credits were divided between Newborn and the rest of the band. Clearly labeled, as if outlining the prenuptial agreement for the eventual divorce.

Fellow Indy band The Bonesetters had paired with Slothpop for gigs on multiple occasions. The pair of bands served as support for each other’s album release parties. Lead-singer Dan Snodgrass had this to say about the news of the break up:

Indianapolis is filled with bright stars of talent, and one of the brightest was Slothpop. Slothpop consistently put on excellent shows, and their music still delves into the hearts of people in our fine city. I’m sad to see this pass, but excited to see where the individual members will go from here. Bruce Springsteen was “The Doctor” before he became “The Boss” in the Castiles and Earth. Waylon Jennings played bass for Buddy Holly & the Crickets before breaking out on his own. Though it saddens me to see them go down seperate paths creatively, I’m excited to see where the members channel their amazing talents from here.

Snodgrass is correct to remind listeners that nobody has died. In all likelihood, we will be seeing these musicians again in some capacity. Their talents are too bright to keep hidden for long. In fact, a handful of recordings from Newborn’s solo project KO are available via Musical Family Tree. KO will be performing live at The Melody Inn on April 8th and as part of LUNA Music’s Record Store Day line-up on April 21st. Watch Slothpop’s video for “Kokoro” below.

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Written by Rob Peoni