Cusp’s Journey: From Rochester to Chicago
Debut and Relocation
Cusp’s remarkable evolution from their debut album, 2023’s You Can Do It All, to their latest offering, What I Want Doesn’t Want Me Back, parallels their transition from Rochester, New York, to Chicago, Illinois. This geographical shift marked a significant turning point for the band, allowing them to expand their lineup and redefine their sound.
Expanded Lineup and Musical Growth
Upon relocating, Cusp embraced a new quintet configuration, welcoming guitarist Gaelen Bates, bassist Matt Manes, drummer Tommy Moore, and keyboardist Tessa O’Connell alongside frontperson Bender. This expansion catalyzed a broader sonic palette, moving beyond the grunge-inflected alt-rock of their early recordings. While Cusp remains firmly rooted in guitar-driven music, their new sound incorporates playful synths in tracks like “Oh Man,” country pedal steel in “The Upper Hand,” and a generous sprinkling of tambourine in “Give Up Your Garden.”
Vocal Harmonies and Authentic Charm
The band excels in weaving intricate vocal harmonies, with Moore and O’Connell’s contributions enriching Bender’s lead vocals. Cusp’s approach is refreshingly unpretentious; they embody the indie-rock band next door, appealing through their authenticity rather than overt ambition.
A Snapshot of Life in Sound
In less than thirty minutes, Cusp encapsulates a small slice of their world, focusing on both the trivial and the profound. Tracks like “Extracurricular Hell” address the stifling nature of inactivity, while “Give Up Your Garden” contemplates the interdependence of pain and joy. Cusp’s candidness is both relatable and inviting, as Bender repeatedly asserts, “This thing is legitimate” during the album’s outro, allowing for various interpretations—be it about the band, family, or life itself.
Realism in Indie Rock
By scaling down their narrative, Cusp presents an indie-rock perspective of the world that feels reassuringly relatable. They eschew both aloofness and overt confessions, opting instead for a grounded portrayal of life’s intricacies. This approach is what sets them apart and makes their music resonate deeply with listeners.
Conclusion
Cusp’s transition from Rochester to Chicago has not only expanded their musical horizons but has also enriched their storytelling. With a diverse sound and an authentic representation of life’s nuances, they have firmly established themselves in the indie-rock scene, offering a refreshing perspective that is both charming and relatable.
FAQs
What genre of music does Cusp play?
Cusp primarily plays indie rock, incorporating elements of grunge, alt-rock, and various other genres for a unique sound.
Who are the members of Cusp?
The band consists of Bender (vocals), Gaelen Bates (guitar), Matt Manes (bass), Tommy Moore (drums), and Tessa O’Connell (keyboard).
What are the themes explored in their latest album?
Their latest album, What I Want Doesn’t Want Me Back, explores themes of life’s minutiae, the interplay of joy and pain, and personal authenticity.
How has Cusp’s sound evolved over time?
Since their debut, Cusp has expanded their sound by incorporating a wider range of instruments and styles, moving beyond their initial grunge influences to include synths, pedal steel, and rich harmonies.
Where is Cusp based now?
Cusp is currently based in Chicago, Illinois, after relocating from Rochester, New York.
