Cloud Nothings, Armlock, and Farmer’s Wife — Zebulon — 11.21.2024

Tucked in a far corner behind the bar, a long Kubrickesque hallway with liminal energy guides music fans to the main ballroom. A warm-toned guitar doused in reverb, underscored by loud percussion, emanates from that back room and trembles Zebulon like a powerful earthquake. Austin-based Farmer’s Wife singer Molly Masson gingerly sings into the mic, channeling yesteryear's shoegaze and punk singers. (Note: Farmer’s Wife became infamous after releasing their single “Gregg Abbott’s Maxi Pad,” a political surf rock song responding to the overturning of Roe v. Wade, which is very cool and actually very punk.)

Second on the bill, Armlock took the stage after Farmer’s Wife and showcased their unique brand of slowcore style, reminiscent of Hovvdy and Alex G. It was a much lighter, mellow tone than would crescendo into jams. Lastly, Cloud Nothings ignited the room with furious post-hardcore rhythms and melodies, transforming their light indie recordings into something more vicious.