The Rise of Kai Slater and Lifeguard: A Glimpse into Chicago’s DIY Art-Punk Scene
Hallogallo: A Zine with a Purpose
Kai Slater, the 20-year-old guitarist and co-vocalist of the burgeoning post-punk band Lifeguard, is not just making waves in music; he is also the creative force behind a handmade zine titled Hallogallo. Named after a track by Krautrock pioneers Neu!, Hallogallo draws inspiration from the punk and mod revival zines of the 1980s. Through meticulous craftsmanship, Slater curates content that not only reflects but actively contributes to a vibrant DIY art-punk scene in Chicago. This scene has already birthed notable acts such as Horsegirl, Friko, and Post Office Winter.
Lifeguard’s Debut Album: Ripped and Torn
Lifeguard’s debut album, Ripped and Torn, echoes the ethos of Hallogallo and is named after a seminal British punk zine. The album is imbued with a sense of urgency and authenticity that makes it a standout in the modern music landscape. It is a rare gem that elevates indie rock to a level of life-changing significance.
A Sound That Grabs Attention
The thrills on Ripped and Torn emerge suddenly and maintain their momentum throughout. The track “It Will Get Worse” kicks off with a laid-back guitar riff, punctuated by explosive cymbal crashes reminiscent of the energy found in Parquet Courts’ Light Up Gold. However, the song’s pace shifts rapidly, driven by Isaac Lowenstein’s erratic drumming and Asher Case’s deceptively simple bass lines. Slater’s guitar work is sharp and atonal, yet he skillfully balances aggression with introspection, transitioning to sliding octaves that evoke the spirit of a young Tom DeLonge.
Lyrical Simplicity and Melodic Confidence
In “It Will Get Worse,” Slater repeats the phrase “no one around here” with a haunting simplicity that sticks in the listener’s mind. The mid-section of the song sees him abandon lyrics altogether, opting instead for la-la-las that showcase a commendable confidence in a minimalist melody.
Crafting Hooks in a Sea of Noise
Lifeguard’s youth could easily lend itself to a tendency to produce noise for noise’s sake. However, the band distinguishes itself by honing in on catchy hooks that emerge unexpectedly. The track “Like You’ll Lose” starts with a stuttering monotone before blossoming into a surprisingly poignant chorus. In contrast, “France And” delivers a hard-hitting refrain built from just two notes and three simple words: “Oh, oh/I am, I am.”
The Art of Vocal Expression
A recurring motif in the album is the remarkable ability of both Slater and Case to deliver compelling “oh” sounds. Slater’s higher, raspier tone lends itself well to the power-pop influences he channels, while Case’s deeper voice, influenced by ‘80s new wave, complements the overall sound. Their shared knack for pronouncing “oh” with effortless nonchalance creates an emotional resonance that cuts through the mix.
Connection to Musical Heritage
This vocal prowess not only pays homage to the rich history of pop and punk music but also reflects Lifeguard’s understanding of a fundamental truth: there is no need to overcomplicate a song when a well-placed vowel can convey so much emotion.
Conclusion
Kai Slater and Lifeguard are emblematic of a new wave in the DIY art-punk scene, where creativity thrives through collaboration and innovation. With Hallogallo and Ripped and Torn, they are not merely participants in a musical conversation but rather pivotal voices shaping the narrative of modern indie rock.
FAQs
Who is Kai Slater?
Kai Slater is a 20-year-old guitarist and co-vocalist of the post-punk band Lifeguard, known for his contributions to the Chicago DIY art-punk scene and for editing the zine Hallogallo.
What is Hallogallo?
Hallogallo is a handmade zine created by Kai Slater, inspired by punk and mod revival zines of the 1980s and named after a song by the Krautrock band Neu!.
What is Lifeguard’s debut album called?
Lifeguard’s debut album is titled Ripped and Torn, named after a significant British punk zine.
What musical influences can be found in Lifeguard’s work?
Lifeguard’s music incorporates elements of post-punk, power pop, and new wave, reflecting a diverse array of influences from the past 50 years of music history.
How does Lifeguard differentiate itself from other bands?
Lifeguard sets itself apart by focusing on memorable hooks and confident melodies, avoiding the pitfall of noise for noise’s sake, and instead crafting songs with emotional depth.
