Fresh off of being named the Chicago Reader‘s “Best Band Primed to Break Out This Year,” Ne-Hi—the latest in a suddenly long line of fantastic basement-born bands from the Windy City—have released their new single, “Drag.” If their former stagemates Twin Peaks crank out power punk like it’s the fortunate byproduct of sheer muscle and mania, Ne-Hi are the more thoughtful cousin: they’re not afraid to make a little noise when they want to, but their sound is decidedly more considered and controlled.
“‘Drag”s about realizing how far from the present I can get,” singer Jason Balla tells Stereogum. “At the time [it was recorded], my friend was feeling some real weight and it woke me up to the fact that I wasn’t really around. This song is about taking the time to go through the mud with them. It’s about taking care and putting your ear to the ground.” Put your ear to your speakers and listen below, then check the dates for Ne-Hi’s first extensive tour, which kicks off in Pittsburgh in August.
Ne-Hi tour dates
July
9 – Indianapolis, IN @ Joyful Noise
August
11 – Pittsburgh, PA @ Thunderbird Café
13 – Allston, MA @ Great Scott
14 – Brooklyn, NY @ Baby’s All Right
15 – Philadelphia, PA @ Boot & Saddle
16 – Washington, DC @ DC9
17 – Richmond, VA @ Strange Matter
18 – Asheville, NC @ The Mothlight
19 – Greensboro, NC @ The Crown at Carolina Theatre
20 – Savannah, G @ Hang Fire Bar
21 – Atlanta, GA @ 529
24 – Austin, TX @ Red 7
25 – Dallas, TX @ Three Links
27 – Columbia, MO @ Café Berlin
28 – Iowa City, IA @ The Mill
29 – Milwaukee, WI @ Riverwest Public House
September
4-6 – Chicago, IL @ North Coast Music Festival
