"Lightning Bug", Paper Mache's sophomore release, is an album built on experience and exploration. After 2 years on the road, Paper Mache had completed over 450 shows supporting their debut record "Easier to Lose". A DIY band comprised of members from all over the globe, Paper Mache began as an idea formed in the mind of frontman Chelsea Seth Woodward. After the release of "Easier to Lose" the band built a rapid, cult-like following of fans. The band is quick to deny this however, stating that the people they have encountered on the road are more like friends and family, than fans.
After years on the road, the band decided to take a break in September 2009. Returning to Los Angeles to begin writing for a new record. After four months of being holed up in a studio the band split for an extended break, and everyone returned home.
This time apart saw many changes for the band. It was a time of great self-reflection, time with family, and also brought changes of the heart. The band had always discussed a move to Austin, but in March of 2010, just two months before the scheduled move, two great losses shook the band to their core. The mother of guitarist Brian Bash suddenly passed away, leaving everyone to question the motivation behind moving to Austin. On top of losing a loved one, the band was also seeing the departure of one of it's founding members, Chris "Olaf" Rindal. This
news left the band in near ruins.
Bash, Hudson, and Woodward would spend the next two months deciding how and if to move forward. Finally, after much discussion the three decided they did not want to see an end to Paper Mache, and what had essentially become a band of brothers. The three made plans to move to Austin.
The band moved into a 4 bedroom house in South Austin, and converted the garage into a studio. In true Paper Mache fashion, the band opted to self-finance, and produce the entire record from their home. While in Austin, they were introduced to Heartless Bastard's guitarist Mark Nathan. Mark, who has worked with many great bands and has a Grammy working with Austin native's Asleep At the Wheel, invited the band to come track vocals at a studio owned by
Michael Crow.
The finished product, "Lightning Bug", is a raw and thoughtful album that explores many different stylings of music. On first listen, one will notice the shift in Woodward's lyrics towards a more contemplative and positive outlook on life. The album is fueled by the loss of lover's, loved ones, and close friends. It focuses on the struggles of growing into an adult, and learning to survive and succeed in today's world. Listeners will also notice some politcal motivation on tracks like "Payday Loan", and "Nickel and Dime". Paper Mache plan to continue writing, and are already looking at more tour plans for the future. Be sure to pick up "Lightning Bug" out March 5, 2011, and catch Paper Mache live in a town near you.
