Local artists Phabies to debut new music in studio along with performances by Kylee Phillips and Pancho Villa’s Skull.
Every Tuesday evening, a special energy fills the room as listeners tune in to MI Local on Detroit Public Radio 101.9 WDET. The live nature of the show often leads to unexpected surprises and exclusive sneak peeks into the local music scene. This week was no exception, with Ypsilanti singer-songwriter Kylee Phillips reaching out to share her latest work. Phillips, known for her past album “The Good Parts,” offered listeners a first listen to her new song “Devil I Know,” set to be released alongside a music video on Friday. The track showcases a shift into a heavier, ballad-centric indie-rock sound, expanding her musical repertoire.
In addition to Phillips’ debut, listeners were treated to new music from local artists like Pancho Villa’s Skull, an energetic brother duo from Pontiac. Their latest single “Resistiré Existiré” combines Mariachi influences with punk energy, celebrating individuality in a world that often suppresses uniqueness. As the show delved into upcoming music festivals such as Movement Electronic Music Festival in Hart Plaza, tracks from musicians like Whodat and Ladymonix set the stage for the holiday weekend’s festivities.
Amidst the musical showcase, the spotlight of the night shone on Grand Rapids-based indie-rock outfit Phabies. Band founder Laura Hobson, a multi-disciplinary artist with a penchant for vivid storytelling, leads Phabies with a unique blend of moody folk and dynamic pop sensibilities. Since forming in 2018, the band, made up of Garrett Stier, Joshua Holicki, Max McKinnon, and Andrew Deters, has captivated audiences with their compelling sound.
Despite the obstacles of rain and construction, Hobson and Stier embarked on a journey from Grand Rapids to Detroit for an exclusive interview at the WDET Studios. The band unveiled a song from their upcoming album “The Curse of Caring,” slated for release on June 13. Listeners were treated to a preview of “I Care For You,” a single set to drop on May 27, showcasing Phabies’ signature serotonergic pop balladry.
During their studio visit, Hobson and Stier shared an acoustic rendition of “Green Cement,” yet another unreleased gem from their forthcoming album. With a Polaroid camera in tow, Hobson injected a touch of nostalgia into the evening, offering a glimpse into the creative process behind Phabies’ music. The band’s name, Phabies, unveils a quirky backstory, reminiscent of the storytelling format seen in ‘The Moth,’ adding a layer of depth to their musical persona.
As MI Local continues to amplify the voices of local musicians, listeners can expect an eclectic mix of genres and styles, highlighting the rich musical tapestry of Michigan. From indie rockers like Phabies to singer-songwriters like Kylee Phillips and experimental pop groups like Kind of Animal, the show provides a platform for emerging talents to share their sounds with a wider audience. Keep an eye out for the latest releases and upcoming shows in the region, as MI Local remains a beacon of discovery for music enthusiasts across Michigan.