Girl Trouble, the iconic garage rock ensemble, is making a triumphant return with their first album in over two decades, titled "As Is." Slated for release on June 26th, this much-anticipated record marks a significant moment for fans, as it will be issued jointly by their long-standing label, K Records, and their own imprint, Wig Out! This comeback highlights the enduring legacy and continued creative drive of a band that has influenced generations of musicians within the Pacific Northwest scene and beyond. The album is poised to reintroduce their distinctive sound, characterized by raw energy and an undeniable rock-and-roll spirit, to both loyal followers and new listeners alike.
Formed in 1984 in Tacoma, Washington, Girl Trouble quickly carved out a niche for themselves with their energetic performances and unique musical style. Their early career saw them collaborating with K Records, which released their debut singles “Riverbed” and “Old Time Religion.” A pivotal moment arrived in 1988 with the release of "Hit It or Quit It," an album that holds the distinction of being the inaugural full-length release on Sub Pop, a label that would later become synonymous with the grunge movement. Their discography continued to grow, culminating in "The Illusion of Excitement" in 2005, before a prolonged hiatus from new album releases. The forthcoming "As Is" thus represents a significant chapter in their storied career, showcasing their evolution while retaining the core elements that define them.
Calvin Johnson, the visionary founder of K Records, shared his enthusiasm for the band's return, describing Girl Trouble as "the Northwest's garage rock demigods." He highlighted their widespread reverence among esteemed artists such as Neko Case, Mudhoney, Soundgarden, and Beat Happening, underscoring their profound impact on the music landscape. Johnson's description of "As Is" paints a vivid picture of what to expect: a fusion of vibrating guitar melodies, rhythmic bedrock beats, and distinctive vocalizations, all contributing to a raw, backwoods rock-and-roll aesthetic. He emphasized the album's dynamic quality, suggesting its 13 tracks are designed to ignite the dancefloor with an "overdrive" energy. This testimonial from a key figure in their history reinforces the album's significance and its potential to captivate audiences once more.
The album's tracklist features thirteen songs, including titles like “Make It Mine,” “Back on Track,” “Can You Dig It,” and “Freedom Rock,” suggesting a blend of introspective and high-octane material. The release of a video for "Make It Mine" offers a tantalizing preview of the album's sound and visual style, allowing fans to engage with their new material prior to the full album drop. "As Is" promises to be a powerful statement from a band that has consistently pushed the boundaries of garage rock, maintaining their authenticity and passion for over four decades. This new collection of songs is more than just a return; it's a reaffirmation of Girl Trouble's enduring influence and their unwavering commitment to their craft.
This re-emergence with "As Is" not only adds a new chapter to Girl Trouble's musical journey but also serves as a testament to their lasting relevance in the ever-evolving world of rock music. After a considerable hiatus from album production, the band's decision to release new material through both their original label and their independent imprint underscores a blend of nostalgic roots and contemporary self-sufficiency. The anticipation surrounding "As Is" is palpable, reflecting the deep respect and admiration the band has garnered throughout its distinguished career. It’s an exciting time for rock enthusiasts, as this album is set to reinvigorate the scene with its signature vigor and authentic sound.