The most deceptively docile named act this side of Death Cab for Cutie, Upstate New York’s Skullcrusher’s music is as gorgeous as it is devastating. Through Helen Ballentine’s soft-spoken vocals, she reveals herself over the course of her remarkably confessional lyricism.
Surrounded by lush instrumentation and delicate guitar strumming, Ballentine wanders through self-reflection without giving way to the easy trappings of nostalgia. It’s a record that’s easy to open up to as well as one you can find yourself fully lost inside endlessly.
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We're excited to announce Skullcrusher as part of Rough Trade On The Rise, our dedicated curation putting a spotlight on the emerging music we are the most excited for you to hear, to follow and become a fan of. Read on to discover more about them in their own words and make sure you check out forthcoming album Quiet the Room, out on October 14th.
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Skullcrusher on Skullcrusher
A self-penned bio
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Five by Five
Describe Skullcrusher in 5 words
My thoughts become unexpected sounds
5 records you listened to prior to making your album?
Sufjan Stevens - Seven Swans
Kelly Lee Owens - Inner Song
Gillian Welch - Time (The Revelator)
Fionn Regan - The End of History
Frou Frou - Details
Top 5 career moments?
- finishing my first album
- playing the first Skullcrusher show
- recording in upstate new york
- getting to spend time writing music
- working with my friends
You host a pre-release listening party for the album. Who are your 5 VIP guests (dead or alive)?
Hayao Miyazaki
George Harrison
Agnes Varda
Willem Dafoe
My cat Finn
Top 5 essential tour snacks?
I haven't really been on tour before but ideally would have:
Prosciutto
Baguette
Raspberries
Cheese
Olives
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