Don’t Get Lemon is more than just a band; they’re a statement, a rebellion against the mundane, a celebration of the unconventional. With their latest release, “Have Some Shame”, Austin-based trio don’t get lemon continues to solidify their place in the indie music scene with their bold and original interpretation of new wave music. Drawing inspiration from iconic acts like Orchestral Manoeuvres in the Dark and Talking Heads, while injecting a modern twist, don’t get lemon creates music that captivates listeners with its unique blend of synth-pop and indie rock. In a Texas music scene bursting with diversity and talent, Don’t Get Lemon stands out as a genre-defying force, capturing the essence of pop music’s golden era with a modern twist.
Their name, a playful twist on Cockney rhyming slang, hints at their sharp, witty approach to music. It’s a nod to influences like The Stone Roses and the spirit of the ’68 Paris riots, where lemon imagery symbolized protest and defiance. This theme runs deep in Don’t Get Lemon’s music, touching on societal issues with an unapologetic voice.
Led by vocalist Austin Curtis, alongside guitarist and keyboardist Nick Ross, and Bryan Walters on bass, don’t get lemon burst onto the scene in September 2019 with their debut single “the crest of a wave”. Curtis, with his magnetic charisma, commands attention as the suave frontman, delivering powerful vocals infused with theatrical flair and raw emotion. Ross’s mastery of synth and guitar creates dense, atmospheric textures, while Walters’s robust bass lines and dynamic percussion anchor the tracks. Since then, they’ve been on a relentless trajectory, releasing a string of well-received singles, EPs, and their debut album, “Hyper Hollow Heaven”, in 2022. Now, they’re back with their highly anticipated sophomore LP, “Have Some Shame”.
Their latest album, “Have Some Shame,” produced by Dan Duszynski and mastered by Paul Gold, defies the detached coolness of coldwave, opting for a warmer, more passionate sound they call “Heatwave.” The title track sets the tone, exploring themes of authenticity and materialism, challenging the superficiality of fame and the emptiness of public life.
The title track, “Have Some Shame”, sets the tone with its ethereal synths and pulsating rhythms, drawing listeners into a world of rich melodies and captivating hooks. From there, tracks like “Blow-Up” and “Say Something New for Once” showcase the band’s ability to blend pop sensibilities with indie rock flair, creating a sound that is both familiar and refreshingly unique. In fact “Blow-Up” follows suit with its powerful lyrics addressing vulnerability and disillusionment, reminiscent of the Clash’s Combat Rock era. The song’s repetition and percussion drive home a sense of impending self-destruction, reflecting a deep-seated fear of personal downfall.
Standout moments on the album include the lively “Last Chance for Romance”, with its infectious energy and catchy melodies, and the dreamy closer, “Pop Star Salvation”, which weaves together intricate layers of instrumentation to create a mesmerizing sonic tapestry.
To celebrate the release of “Have Some Shame”, don’t get lemon is gearing up for a two-week tour of the Midwest alongside label mates Holy Wire. It’s an exciting time for the band as they continue to carve out their place in the music scene, one electrifying performance at a time.
Throughout “Have Some Shame”, Don’t Get Lemon presents politically charged anthems of our time, addressing topics like social media and school shootings with unapologetic honesty. Each track showcases their dedication to pushing boundaries and challenging the status quo. With refreshing honesty and rebellion, Don’t Get Lemon offers a unique musical experience that leaves a lasting impression. So, dive in, turn up the volume, and let Don’t Get Lemon take you on a journey you won’t soon forget.
During the summer of 2024, Don’t Get Lemon will hit the road alongside Holy Wire for an electrifying tour.
Tour Dates:
- Saturday, June 8th ˑ Austin, TX ˑ Hotel Vegas
- Friday, June 14th ˑ San Antonio, TX ˑ Hi-Tones
- Saturday, June 15th ˑ Dallas, TX ˑ Double Wide
- Sunday, June 16th ˑ Tulsa, OK ˑ Whittier Bar
- Monday, June 17th ˑ Kansas City, MO ˑ Farewell Cafe
- Wednesday, June 19th ˑ Milwaukee, WI ˑ Bremen Cafe
- Thursday, June 20th ˑ Chicago, IL ˑ Livewire Lounge
- Friday, June 21st ˑ Ann Arbor, MI ˑ Ziggy’s
- Saturday, June 22nd ˑ Pittsburgh, PA ˑ Remedy
- Sunday, June 23rd ˑ Cincinnati, OH ˑ Madison Live
- Monday, June 24th ˑ Nashville, TN ˑ The Cobra
Listen to “Have Some Shame” below and join the growing legion of fans who can’t get enough of don’t get lemon’s electrifying sound.