Local favorites Kirby Grip, previously known for a more lo-fi approach to midwest emo, have spent the last few years forging a massive new sound for their fine-tuned debut LP, Portrait of Bliss. With the album’s November 18 release date less than a month away, we’re excited to premiere the album’s second single here today: “Green Sky,” a dynamic riff-based track that could fit effortlessly into any 90s alt-rock mixtape. Watch an animated music video for the new single below.
The record’s guitar-heavy focus is partially thanks to a more earnest approach to writing lyrics this time around. “The songs we’ve put together for [Portrait of Bliss] are extremely personal, exposed, honest, and loud,” says guitarist/vocalist Joseph Valdivia, describing a record that touches on family fallouts, failures of elected leaders, and other personal issues among the band’s members. “It’s a great record for people who hate the government,” he adds.
Portrait of Bliss was mixed by singer/songwriter Snow Ellet and mastered by Greg Obis (Stuck). Kirby Grip will celebrate the record’s release with a headlining show at Sleeping Village with Late Nite Laundry and Mister Goblin—grab your tickets here.
KIRBY GRIP
Portrait of Bliss
Release Date: November 18, 2021
01. Gravity Knives
02. Armstrong
03. Velvia Cellar
04. Shoulder Rocket
05. Shallow & Stunned
06. Venue Department Store
07. Green Sky
08. Eight Scratch
09. Wry
10. Red Walls
11. Brainless
12. Economy of Soul