Blankslate reveals groundbreaking second album “Lookout Mountain Charley”

303 Magazine recently had the opportunity to delve into the upcoming release of Blankslate’s second album, “Lookout Mountain Charley,” set to debut on August 8th. The indie rock duo, initially established as a trio in 2018, has now transitioned into a powerful musical duo, comprising core members Rylee Dunn and Tess Condron. This evolution has allowed the pair to revisit the essence of their craft, honing in on songwriting and the intricacies of band life.

In a candid conversation with 303 Magazine, Dunn and Condron elaborated on the significant growth they have experienced as musicians and individuals throughout their creative journey. The forthcoming album explores a myriad of themes such as love, loss, and the complexities inherent in the life of a touring band. Dunn highlighted the personal nature of their music, expressing, “This album is about recognizing where you’re failing as a person and as a musician. It feels really honest to deliver it in our original form.”

The production process of “Lookout Mountain Charley” was a collaborative endeavor, with Tyler Imbrogno at DayMoon Studio playing a pivotal role in shaping the album’s sound. The duo expressed their deep appreciation for the partnership, underscoring how it enabled them to capture the true essence of their musical compositions. Dunn shared insights into the album’s evolution, noting a prior version that underwent significant changes due to lineup shifts but ultimately culminated in a fulfilling musical experience.

The songwriting process for the album was equally unique, with Dunn and Condron initially crafting demos on their phones before fine-tuning them with the band. Returning to their roots as a duo, they observed a striking authenticity in their songs’ development, as Condron remarked, “It’s been a fun evolution to see our songs go through because they’re still who they were when they were born.”

While “Lookout Mountain Charley” is not a concept album per se, it weaves a subtle narrative thread following a character embarking on a cosmic journey rife with challenges that mirror the complexities of love and loss. Condron delved into the metaphorical significance of the storyline, linking it to the band’s own experiences of highs and lows on the road, from packed venues to intimate performances in empty spaces.

The duo also emphasized the significance of community and support within the vibrant Colorado music scene. Reflecting on their passion for connecting with audiences across various towns and venues, Dunn and Condron expressed gratitude for the enthusiastic reception their music has received, underscoring Colorado as a thriving hub for musical expression and creativity.