[NO COUNTRY PREMIERE] Stream Kellen of Troy’s Self-Reflective Debut EP, ‘The Sad Bastard’

Leading up to the release of his debut EP, The Sad Bastard, a collection of songs that didn’t quite fit the direction of also in-the-works first full-length, Posthumous Release, Kellen of Troy, the solo vehicle of former Apache Relay (RIP) fiddle player turned solo artist and multi-insturmetnliast Kellen Wenrich, recently teamed up with us to premiere first single “California,” the track that inspired this EP in the first place.

While The Sad Bastard officially arrives tomorrow, May 5, and we’re hosting the de facto release party this Tuesday, May 9 at Acme Feed & Seed, we’re thrilled to be able to bring you another premiere, this time of Kellen’s entire new release, a little early- stream it in full below!

Juxtaposing poppy, intimiate, timeless sonic tones with self-reflective and somber themes, Wenrich relishes in the duality of his style, which he likens to the many less-happy-than-meets-the-eye pop songs of the ’60s, telling us “Happy music with a happy message is too praise-and-worshippy. And moody, melancholy music with a sad story is too often boring, unconvincing and self-indulgent. I think songs hit harder if they combine both sides of the coin.”

The EP itself, which Kellen describes as “a lot cheaper than a therapist,” was born of of both discovering his own musical identity while adjusting to life after being in a successful band, and navigating some personal turmoil. “When I finally started writing, it was mostly work on my self-assuredness,” Wenrich explains, “I was going through two breakups, one with an ex and one with a band, and that digs up a lot of dirt. I figured writing would be a healthy coping mechanism.”

The result is a an amazing reflection of Kellen’s artistic individuality and impressive musical range (he played guitar, bass, piano, and violin throughout), and a perfect introduction to an exciting rising local talent.. Stream The Sad Bastard below, and join us May 9 at Acme for the official release party!