Horsegirl, the indie rock trio from Chicago, has announced their second album, “Phonetics On and On,” scheduled for release on February 14, 2025. Comprising Nora Cheng, Penelope Lowenstein, and Gigi Reece, the band has garnered attention for their unique blend of ’90s indie influences and fresh, modern soundscapes.
“Phonetics On and On” is described as an exploration of the lines between pop, minimalism, and playful experimentation. Recorded in the harsh Chicago winter at The Loft, with producer Cate Le Bon at the helm, the album captures the band’s evolution from their debut, “Versions of Modern Performance.” It’s an album that delves into the intimacy of friendship and the joy of music-making, showcasing a confident simplicity that highlights their songwriting prowess.
Working with Cate Le Bon, known for her work with bands like Deerhunter and Kurt Vile, Horsegirl ventured into new sonic territories. The album incorporates violins, synths, and gamelan tiles, reflecting a departure from their previous heavy saturation towards clearer, more inventive soundscapes.
“2468” has been released as the lead single, offering a glimpse into the album’s focus on space and texture, with its hypnotic build and playful lyrics.
The announcement came through multiple channels, including a post on X where the band shared the album artwork, tracklist, and release date. They’ve also teased fans with snippets of new songs and announced a record release show in Chicago along with a spring tour.
The indie rock community is eager to see how the band has matured musically, with critics already praising the lead single for its creativity and the band’s ability to maintain a pop sensibility within experimental frameworks.
To celebrate the album’s release, Horsegirl has scheduled a release show at The Metro in Chicago, followed by a tour across the East Coast with support from Free Range. These live performances are anticipated to bring the new album’s music to life, showcasing the band’s dynamic stage presence.
PHONETICS ON AND ON TRACKLIST:
- Where’d You Go
- Rock City
- In Twos
- 2468
- Well I Know You’re Shy
- Julie
- Switch Over
- Information Content
- Frontrunner
- Sport Meets Sound
- I Can’t Stand To See You
