Sweeping Promises Explained

Sweeping Promises
Origin:Boston, Massachusetts
Genre:Post-punk, indie rock, new wave
Years Active:–present

Sweeping Promises is an American indie rock duo from Boston, Massachusetts now based in Lawrence, Kansas consisting of Lira Mondal and Caufield Schnug. Multi-instrumentalist Spenser Gralla has toured as their live drummer since 2019.

History

The band's origin traces back to their meeting during their undergraduate years at Hendrix College in Conway, Arkansas in 2008. Initially part of various musical endeavors, they found themselves writing exclusively together, solidifying a trust and respect that would define their collaboration over the next decade. In their early years, the duo navigated the Arkansas music scene, contributing to various projects. However, it was during a spontaneous jam session in an abandoned science lab-turned-art space in Boston that Sweeping Promises formed in late 2019. During the rise of the COVID-19 pandemic, the band relocated to Lawrence, Kansas, where they bought a house and attached studio.[1] [2]

Sweeping Promises garnered attention with their debut album, Hunger for a Way Out released in August 2020.[3] The album showcased a distinctive post-punk sound characterized by raw energy, angular guitars, and compelling vocals. The critical acclaim for the album marked Sweeping Promises as a noteworthy addition to the post-punk music landscape. Notably, Gimmie Gimmie Gimmie Zine declared the album their favorite release of 2020, praising its simplicity, spirit, and thrilling qualities.[4]

In June 2023, Sweeping Promises unveiled their second album, titled Good Living Is Coming For You.[5] The recording process is notable for its departure from the single-mic technique employed in their debut. In an interview discussing the album, Caufield Schnug, one half of the duo, emphasized the significance of recording in diverse and imprecise spaces, rejecting the control-centric mindset often associated with modern recordings.[6]

Discography

Notes and References

  1. Web site: Boston Post-punk Band Sweeping Promises: “dreaming of a Future Where Shows and Traveling and Hugs Are a Thing Again” . gimmiezine.com . December 18, 2023 . September 4, 2020.
  2. Web site: Ruckle . Taylor . Sweeping Promises Talk Engineering Their Signature Sound, Touring, Social Media, and More . Post-Trash . December 18, 2023 . December 21, 2021.
  3. Web site: Sullivan . Samantha . An Interview With Sweeping Promises . Melted Magazine . December 18, 2023 . July 7, 2021.
  4. Web site: Dudley . Jared . Artist Interview: Sweeping Promises . KTSW . December 18, 2023 . November 13, 2021.
  5. Web site: Gordon . Arielle . Musicians Lira Mondale and Caufield Schnug (Sweeping Promises) on embracing ambiguity in songwriting, finding success on your own terms, and opting not to slow down. . The Creative Independent . December 18, 2023 . July 20, 2023.
  6. Web site: Sharples . Grant . Sweeping Promises Make a Punk Home in the Heartland . Pitchfork . Conde Nast . December 18, 2023 . July 20, 2023.