IX - RENT STRIKE (2018)

by Klara Nitsche (musical chairs)

an incredible folk punk/rock opera concept album that follows fantastical themes of journeying towards sobriety. incorporating instruments such as the banjo, piano, guitar, and unique vocals from singer-songwriter John Warmb, IX sonically swells through 9 tracks to pull the listener (you!!) through adventures of remorse, anger, acceptance, and relief. heavily inspired by Tolkien, Warmb’s lyricism and musical composition on IX carefully balances the comfort of escaping into fantasy with cuts of relatability as he reminisces on his past struggle with heroin addiction. listening to this album feels like riding a horse across open plains and striking up a campfire before venturing into some grimy cave to Battle. tastefully paced, IX arcs to a satisfying end with my favorite track: To The West!! this album was my first introduction to RENT STRIKE and remains one of my favorite works at the moment. if you find yourself enjoying this album, check out the rest of RENT STRIKE’s discography! they have a knack for blending together sci-fi and fantasy themes with anti capitalist ideology, a really great exploration of contemporary punk music and the DIY scene. happy listening!!