Marking their first physical release in roughly fifteen years, Marquette band Chanteymen’s new three-track EP, "Some for the Hard Times," captures a distinct shift toward a heavier, more emotionally charged sound. Born out of years of personal and creative evolution (including a complete pivot to electric instrumentation following a 2011 house fire), the project trades the acoustic minimalism of their early work for rich sonic textures, driving guitars, and full-throated group vocals. Rather than dwelling in despair, the album's title reflects a cathartic outlet for processing difficult times, offering a raw, mature perspective on navigating life's turbulence.
The short record moves through distinct thematic landscapes, beginning with the bittersweet isolation of "Jortland," a song inspired by the ache of watching local friends relocate to the West Coast. The energy then shifts to "In Defiance," an empowering anthem that resists crushing external forces by channeling frustration into a hopeful, rock-heavy rallying cry for personal resilience. The EP culminates in "Killdozer," a six-minute character study exploring the infamous Granby, Colorado bulldozer incident, using an unhinged vocal performance to serve as a cautionary tale about unchecked anger and the importance of self-reflection.
Public Radio 90's Kurt Hauswirth spoke with bandmates Christopher Moore and Mary Andronis in the studio:
Recorded locally at Studio Strangelight with engineer Dylan Trost, the recording process thrived on a comfortable, highly collaborative spirit that incorporated a vocal gang of band members, long-time friends, and family. Matched with striking block visual artwork, the physical release serves as the focal point for an upcoming live show at Superior Culture on Marquette's Third Street alongside Windmill Music, Streaking in Tongues, and Jonathan Peter Bloom (Saturday, August 8th, at 7:30 pm). Designed as a musical reunion among veteran friends, the performance celebrates both the new record and the enduring strength of the local music community.
Find out more about Chanteymen at their Bandcamp page, https://thechanteymen.bandcamp.com/album/some-for-the-hard-times.
The preceding interview was part of a broadcast of The Shuffle on August 8th, 2026.
