Ugly Duckling Union

Description

If you are not yet familiar with Lowertown, the enigmatic duo formed by Olivia Osby and Avsha Weinberg, now is the perfect time. After a few years of hiatus for the New York duo, which nearly faced dissolution due to conflicts with their record label, creative frustrations, and an excessive attachment to their artistic collaboration, a fresh start was necessary. Their new album, Ugly Duckling Union, available on May 22 via Summer Shade, opens with a soothing sigh from Osby, a symbolic moment that sets the tone for their most thoughtful, unrestrained, catchy, and original collection of songs to date. Ugly Duckling Union is a concept album inspired by the group's experience, which has managed to create a community through its music. The protagonist, Dale, a duckling, and his companions unite to defeat LBH, a tyrannical media multinational that seeks to divide and isolate to consolidate its power. The physical edition of the album includes a booklet rich in information and illustrations by Doctor Nowhere (Silias Orion). Fans can also immerse themselves further into the album's universe with plush toys and a playable Minecraft world inspired by Ugly Duckling Union. Drawing inspiration from the conceptual creativity of groups like Gorillaz and the emphasis on the collective experience of Fugazi concerts, Lowertown merges online and in-person fan communities into an immersive experience. Lowertown is especially known for its poignant reflections on the melancholy of youth, always imbued with a biting honesty. But on Ugly Duckling Union, this angst is approached with more maturity, detachment, and humor. Ugly Duckling Union was entirely written, recorded, produced, and mixed by Osby and Weinberg, and this artisanal and intimate ethic is dear to them and has never wavered. There is great freedom in being an outsider, and ultimately, that is what Ugly Duckling Union offers: finding oneself and thriving through community. And what could be more liberating, self-revealing, and funny than creating a beautiful album with your best friends, loyal companions, and a bit of a twist?