Stef Chura’s sophomore record Midnight is commanding and unapologetic

Solo rocker Stef Chura originally hails from Detroit, where she began writing songs based on her life experiences, having conversations through music that she didn’t want to have otherwise. Her first official release was Messes, an album from 2017 that proved Chura could hold her own in the alternative music scene. She’s now released sophomore LP Midnight via Saddle Creek Records, which infuses her alt garage-pop with industrial rock.

Released June 7th, the album as a whole feels like a really effective therapy session for Chura. Or maybe more of a good kick-boxing session? The point is, she sounds confident, fiery, and entirely unapologetic. “Scream” exemplifies this as it feels exactly like what it’s title states, with shredding guitar, cymbal crashes, and belting vocals from Chura. “All I Do is Lie” is a loud, tinny masterpiece, while — on the opposite end — the vocals on “Trumbull” are supported by nothing but a piano melody. “Sincerely Yours” is a weighty rock ballad that starts of slow and commandingly crescendoes.

“Sweet Sweet Midnight” might sound familiar to anyone who can recognize Car Seat Headrest frontman Will Toldeo’s distinct voice from a mile away. He sings with Chura on this track and, man, do their voices mesh wonderfully together. Toledo produced the record and contributed bass, guitar, organ, and synth as well.

Stef Chura is currently on tour in promotion of Midnight and will play at PhilaMOCA on Saturday, July 13th. Find ticket information here.