In music, brand new artists and voices keep popping up and sometimes we need an introduction to discover our resonance. Meet Late Stage Crush, a Raleigh-based duo trying out country noir. The group was created in 2023 and includes singer Rebecca Sunnybrook and lyricist Susan Mahlburg who produce universal and personal music. Although music genres continue to mix and develop, Late Stage Crush has stayed pleasantly minimal and emotionally direct. This approach shows on their debut EP High Noon Divorce, which continues to be true to their roots but pushes the boundaries of traditional sounds.
Rooted in Tradition, Embracing the New
Late Stage Crush’s sound is pretty unique; It mixes the old together with the new in a manner that feels both familiar and new. At its core, they draw from country noir traditions. For all those unfamiliar, country noir is barefoot storytelling with truthful themes that touch the heart. Rebecca and Susan take this very long tradition and mix in some indie vibes. The result is personal music which touches listeners on numerous levels. They go for simple but powerful; it is their approach. They don’t stuff their songs with needless layers. Instead, they let stripped-back arrangements and straightforward vocals speak for themselves. This puts their lyrics & feelings first-class – a thing that is refreshing in an era of over-production. What I love about their style is it isn’t about being different for being different. Instead, it aims to link the traditional to the contemporary, so that it may be comprehensible today. So whether you dig classic country storytelling dynamics or you dig indie rock, Late Stage Crush has something for you.
The Dynamic Duo: Rebecca and Susan
Every successful music group demands a particular chemistry and Late Stage Crush has no exception. This Raleigh-based duo delivers thoughtful lyrics and melodies. Rebecca Sunnybrook has a particular flair; classically trained; Her voice is pure and raw with an inviting power. It fits Susan Mahlburg’s reflective, story driven lyrics perfectly. Susan writes with imagery and emotion, occasionally inspired by country classics like personal battles and loss. These two create an auditory – emotional harmony. Their songs guide listeners on emotional journeys of love, grief and strength. This particular partnership is much more than setting up tracks – it is storytelling. Their music reaches out to listeners. Late Stage Crush takes you through the levels of every song and makes you feel each note and word like you were the protagonist in their musical story. Their collaboration is the heart of what helps make Late Stage Crush such a thrilling act. It is a trip into poetry and music. Listening to them in your home or experiencing their raw power live will let you know their chemistry and passion clearly show in every verse and note. Check them out on Spotify to plunge into their world a lot more.
High Noon Divorce: A Debut to Remember
Their first EP, High Noon Divorce, highlights Late Stage Crush’s honest songwriting approach. What makes this particular EP special is the fact every track cuts to the chase and avoids needless production flourishes; that means you get real music that feels raw. The songs address the ups and downs of breakups in addition to new beginnings – themes most could relate to. They discuss the end of love as a loss but also a chance for growth and clarity. This is something most folks understand in a way. Even though the themes are pretty personal, the EP is able to reach anybody who is been in a similar circumstance – making the emotions common. And that is the magic: It feels intimate yet grand at the very same time. Just how do they do this? Late Stage Crush centers the lyrics and lets the stories flow and unfold in a natural way. It is just like reading a really great book you cann’t put down, but with music. You get these moments in each song that you like, “I’ve been there,.” The EP blends emotions with resilience. In case you have ever coped with heartbreak – or perhaps if you have not – there is one thing cathartic about their music which may simply hit you.
Evolving Sound and Future Plans
After the success of their debut, Late Stage Crush has been hard at work on their second EP, aiming for an early 2026 release. This new collection promises to build on their established sound while introducing richer instrumentation like pedal steel and upright bass. This progression marks an exciting next chapter for the duo, as they continue to refine their music and engage with their growing fanbase. Along with new music, they are also planning a series of small venue shows across regions like North Carolina and Tennessee. These live performances aim to bring their intimate sound to life, offering fans a chance to experience their music in a personal setting. It’s this commitment to evolving their sound and connecting with listeners that makes them a band to watch.
If you’re looking to explore their music, you won’t want to miss their debut EP. Check out High Noon Divorce to hear their unique sound for yourself. To stay updated with the latest from Late Stage Crush, including news about upcoming shows and releases, follow them on Instagram. Their music, rooted in deep storytelling and rich traditions, is something you’ll want to keep on your radar. Dive into their world and enjoy the journey they take you on.