About

The Highs, The Lows, And Everything In Between is a concept record in three parts–a poignant examination of the music industry both past and present. It will be released in three EP-sized installments beginning September 27, 2024 via Mint 400 Records.

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The first chapter of the trilogy, THE HIGHS, is an upbeat, “capital-R” Rock EP that injects further irresistible energy into E.R.I.E.’s catalog. Thematically, the EP looks back fondly on making music at a young age with no expectations, and sends an emotional nod of appreciation to the ones that have supported along the way. ‘There’s only one thing that’s saved my life and it’s a loud stage on a Friday night…’ vocalist TJ Foster declares over a bombastic rhythm section on “Hard Headed”, which features multi-hyphenate performer Erin Harkes in another irresistable collaborative pairing for the band. The collection is an anthemic display of gratitude for the artform, with all the qualities of a fun, no-frills pop-rock record.

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Later this Fall, the lows promises to showcase the band stretching their legs stylistically in ways they’ve yet to. Stemming from moments of burnout and disillusionment with the industry, the trilogy’s second chapter is laced with vulnerability, providing a first-hand account of the self-doubt and frustrations that accompany chasing an “impossible dream” for so many years. ‘I hate to hear it from myself, but maybe I’m not good enough…’ Foster somberly admits in the EP’s closer, “Battlescars”.

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…And Everything in Between will wrap up the record in early 2025, with the final four songs finding a sort of middle ground between not only the first two chapters, but the rest of their discography as well. Thematically, they harken back to some of the themes that were present on their critically-lauded Suburban Mayhem LP, but tied directly to experiences as a local musician.

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“I asked myself what I wanted to say if this was the last record I ever made,” Foster remarks. “The first thought that came to mind was documenting what it’s like as an underground musician, navigating the ups and downs of this business. There are so many stories of grandeur and superstardom in rock n’ roll - I wanted to tell one about the rest of us, scaling an impossibly tall mountain via VFW halls, dirty basements and crowded minivans. Forever climbing, forever conquering obstacles, forever hungry for more.”