On June 27, 2024, the Bay Area-based band Everything But The Everything, led by the enigmatic Izzy The Gent, released their latest project, ‘A & B Sides Vol. Two.’ This 7-inch dual single captures the band’s dynamic alt-punk ethos and showcases their knack for blending raw energy with melodic sophistication. The EP features two standout tracks, “Hotshot” and “Salt,” both produced by the acclaimed Rex Shelverton, known for his work with Vue and Tamaryn. The release continues to affirm the band’s place in the indie music scene, with fresh and compelling sounds that resonate with a broad audience.
Everything But The Everything is a collective force, bringing together a diverse group of musicians who contribute to the band’s distinctive sound. At the helm is Izzy The Gent, a multi-instrumentalist who primarily handles bass duties but also takes on a variety of roles in the band’s production. Izzy’s eclectic background includes stints with bands like JonBenet Stranglehold, The Frail, The Cons, and Fake Your Own Death.
The band’s lineup is rounded out by vocalist Sophia Prise, whose emotive delivery adds a layer of depth and intensity to the music. Guitarist Ian Dowd, known for his work with Fire In The Hamptons and JonBenet Stranglehold, brings a sharp, melodic edge to the tracks. Drummer Chad Roxxit, from The Hot Takes and Chad and Scott, provides the rhythmic backbone, driving the energy and pace of the band’s music.
The creation of ‘A & B Sides Vol. Two’ reflects the band’s collaborative spirit and creative spontaneity. In a candid recounting of the recording process, Izzy The Gent shared a story that perfectly encapsulates their approach: “The first day in the studio with Rex, I showed up with a $99 Casio keyboard and played stock grand piano sounds. Rex didn’t bat an eye. He put the cheap keyboard through his vintage equipment and got it to vibe.” This anecdote highlights the band’s willingness to experiment and their ability to extract high-quality sounds from unexpected sources.
**”Hotshot”** is a new wave-inspired track that features a compelling mix of post-punk rhythms and ethereal melodies. Sophia Prise’s vocal performance is particularly noteworthy, delivering a lyrical complexity that challenges the norms of straightforward pop-punk. The song’s catchy yet intricate structure was a collaborative effort, with Prise crafting a melody that was as challenging as it was engaging. As Izzy remarked, “When Sophia came up with the vocal melody, she said, ‘We got this last-minute song to add to our set,’ and what do I do? I come up with the wordiest melody with no space for a breath a singer could come up with instead of something simple and safe.”
**”Salt”** takes a different approach, blending the rawness of punk rock with a polished pop sensibility. The track originated from Izzy’s desire to refresh the band’s live set with new energy. The urgency of its creation is mirrored in its brisk pace and sharp delivery. Describing the song’s evolution, Izzy noted, “I really liked the energy of ‘Salt’ in its demo form. With two scheduled rehearsals before the show, I said to everyone, ‘learn the song and let’s get in there and knock it out.’ A few days before our scheduled rehearsal, I called Sophia and asked how her vocal melodies and lyrics were coming along. She replied, ‘I think I got it.’ When we got in the rehearsal space and I heard her sing the chorus, I knew we had something extra special.”
‘A & B Sides Vol. Two’ is a compelling testament to Everything But The Everything’s ability to channel a wide range of emotions through their music. Whether crafting a punk anthem or a haunting ballad, the band conveys authenticity and passion, underpinned by solid musicianship. The dual single format allows them to showcase their versatility, capturing the contrasting but complementary aspects of their sound.
The EP’s release is not just a new chapter for Everything But The Everything but also a reaffirmation of their commitment to evolving and challenging the boundaries of the alt-punk genre. With their innovative use of instruments, thoughtful lyrics, and compelling vocal performances, the band continues to carve out a unique space in the indie music landscape.
As ‘A & B Sides Vol. Two’ makes its way to listeners worldwide, it invites both long-time fans and new listeners to experience the raw energy and nuanced artistry that Everything But The Everything brings to the table. This release is a must-listen for anyone who appreciates the fusion of punk’s edge with the melodic sophistication of new wave and alternative rock.
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