Have you discover some hidden gems of music which catch you by surprise? And you know, those artists that pop onto your playlist really quick because their sound just seems right? Well, meet Late Stage Crush, the duo that happen to be shaking up indie music since they began making music together in 2023. They aren’t your standard duo – Rebecca Sunnybrook sings and Susan Mahlburg writes lyrics. Together they make stripped down but story – rich songs. This approach delivers an emotional punch right in the feels.
They play country noir with a contemporary indie twist. Just how they do a lot with so little is intriguing. Their first EP High Noon Divorce is about loss and distance with indie Americana undertones. Each song is a mini-story stripped of excess and centered on the raw feelings of breakups – not ends but changes that hold their very own type of beauty. Their sound opens up these relatable emotions. In case you like simple but affecting music, you should check them a try.
A Unique Blend of Styles
What makes Late Stage Crush distinct is their combination of country noir and indie influences. Rooted in traditions but planted in the now, their music is familiar yet fresh. The Raleigh-based duo Founded by Rebecca Sunnybrook and Susan Mahlburg, their music is straight-talking, honest – straightforward. Their songs have sparse arrangements that enable Rebecca to sing head and shoulders above the melody. Raised on classical training, Rebecca gives her voice a refreshing intensity which can barely be ignored. Susan, on the other hand, adds a history as a published poet to the mix, incorporating abundant storytelling and lyrics flair. Picture classic country stories of heartbreak and renewal – every word chosen with care.
Together they have produced music that sticks – songs that strip down to the essentials but that last. You can sense the vulnerability in each track, these emotional stories they are telling. It is this particular approach which makes them such an exciting find. They hit the heart each time. Their debut EP,’ High Noon Divorce’ ,showcases this flawlessly – blended sound, merging classic country music with a contemporary indie edge.
Crafting Stories Through Music
Late Stage Crush really knows how to put storytelling front and center. It’s like they’ve mastered the art of transforming their songs into conversations. Imagine sitting down with a close friend who knows exactly how to put into words those tangled emotions everyone experiences. The magic lies in their choice to let lyrics lead the way, rather than burying them under layers of production. Their debut EP, High Noon Divorce, captures this perfectly.
High Noon Divorce isn’t just about endings. Instead, it paints a picture of those complex life transitions that ripple through our experiences—offering clarity and opening doors to new beginnings. You might think of typical breakup songs as just sounding sad or melancholy, but Late Stage Crush approaches them differently. They make you feel as though each song offers gentle reflections on life’s inevitable changes.
The stories within their music go beyond the typical. They are filled with emotion that frames these moments as not just challenges but as opportunities to grow and gain insight. It’s not all drama; it’s more about underlining those profound thoughts you might have while trying to make sense of life’s ups and downs. As you listen, you can imagine each lyric coming to life, making you pause and think, “Yeah, I’ve been there.” So, if you’re keen to find musical stories that resonate deeply, give High Noon Divorce a listen.
What’s Next for Late Stage Crush?
As in case their debut wasn’t already gripping enough, Late Stage Crush is cooking up some goodies to keep you hooked. They are working on their 2nd EP, due out early 2026. This particular new work will carry on that raw, emotionally loaded style you have come to expect, but in somewhat of a surprise package. They are adding more instrumentation, adding pedal steel and upright bass. It appears they are introducing new layers & dimensions to their music and honestly we are all for it. But wait: there is more. In case live music will be your jam, you are in luck. Rebecca and Susan are tuning up to hit the road by late 2025. They’re playing small shows throughout North Carolina and Tennessee and hope to serve their stripped-down vibes live and direct. These smaller venues are just right for interacting with the audience at another level. So, whether you dig the new tunes or the live energy, Late Stage Crush is making waves again. Clearly, this duo is focused on more than melodies. They wish to bring people together because of their evolving sound.
Tune In and Connect
So if you’re on the lookout for some genuine and soulful music, make sure to check out what Late Stage Crush is bringing to the table. Their tunes aren’t just about the melody; they’re storytelling at its best. Each song dives into themes of loss and introspection, packing an emotional punch that stays with you. While you soak up their music, why not follow their journey on Instagram? It’s a great way to stay in the loop about their latest projects and future gigs. Especially if you’re into live performances, their upcoming small-venue shows are something to watch out for.
But hey, don’t just take our word for it. Dive into their debut EP, High Noon Divorce, on Spotify. Each track there is like its own chapter, waiting to resonate with pieces of your life. Their music is an experience, a soulful journey that lets you connect with their story and maybe even find a bit of your own in there, too.