On a cold day in February, 1878, a circus train carrying animals of numerous species derailed and crashed in Montana. When authorities arrived at the scene, they discovered that even though a tiger’s cage broke, the tiger still remained inside.
This surreal story and nine others comprise Ten Stories, the fifth album from Philadelphia experimental indie rock/post-hardcore band mewithoutYou. Vocalist and lyricist Aaron Weiss tackles questions larger than life through his poetic lyrics, which even include dialogue between different characters. It’s easy to become entranced by this 11-track record.
Ten Stories, released in May 2012, creates an atmospheric sonic wilderness. The lyrics paint a vivid imagery, and the listener feels like they are riding on the train, careening out of control, witnessing the circus animals run amok in the American heartland. There’s a chaotic feeling to Ten Stories that ties the whole thing together. The world Aaron Weiss and his bandmates have created has a life of its own.
The band’s attention to detail touches every aspect of this album, including the artwork and packaging. Last month, the band shipped deluxe box sets of the record to their fans. The box edition features stunning artwork and personalized autographed messages. mewithoutYou should have a sense of pride in their accomplishment, since they used their own money and their own record label, Pine Street Music Collection, to create this album.
Experience mewithoutYou‘s music on Sunday, July 22nd at the Hawthorne Theatre. Brooklyn indie/acoustic musician Kevin Devine and Philadelphia indie band Buried Beds (featuring mewithoutYou guitarist Brandon Beaver) will open the show. Tickets to the all-ages show are on sale now. Come along for the ride!
