Philly’s tremendous trio Grocer makes twisty, tricky indie-rock tracks with intertwining vocals from all three members. In the years since their first release, 2020’s Little Splash, the band has quickly become a local favorite. If you’re still unfamiliar with them, take a look at their Studio Session recorded at WXPN last March; it’s filled with whistles, cowbell, and infectious energy.
Grocer has just announced a new album, Bless Me, which Grind Select releases on April 19th. “Packrat” the first single, matches some darkly reflective lyrics with a catchy, thrilling rock power. Bassist and vocalist Danielle Lovier describes the song as being “about feeling stricken with the inability to make decisions and the procrastination paralysis of anxiety.” She says “it was our first attempt at opening up our writing process to be more collaborative, and what would ultimately inform the process for the rest of the album. We aimed to focus on the chemistry between us, acknowledging that what we make together has a greater potential than what any one of us can make alone.”
The band promises the upcoming album will showcase the exhilaration of their live performances but also reckon “with the worn out ‘Thoughts and Prayers’ trope of the American way of thinking”, pushing “for change, rather than mere acknowledgement.” Grocer will embark on a massive tour in support of the album including a performance at Johnny Brenda’s on April 25th — details at the WXPN Concert Calendar. Bless Me will be released on orange marble vinyl as well as streaming services and CD.