Bodega Reveals Title of Fourth Album, “All Inside Aquarium”, and Releases Single of Same Name
The latest album from the band serves as a departure from their previous post-punk sound, as guitarist and vocalist Ben Hozie explains that the new music is influenced by a blend of late ’80s/early ’90s Stone Roses and Jane’s Addiction with a focus on more riffing and guitar solos. Describing the title track as an existential anthem, Hozie delves into the idea of pain leading to a beatific perspective where creative inspiration flows effortlessly.
The music video for the title track, directed by band member Nikki Belfiglio, features the band members inserted into a miniature world created by Belfiglio inside a fish tank over a five-month period. This miniature world reflects all the songs on the upcoming album, meticulously crafted with various materials like wood, paper mache, clay, metal, and paint.
The album was recorded in Leeds over a month and a half with producer Matt Peel at the helm, known for his work with bands like Yard Act and Eagulls. The recording took place at Peel’s studio, the Nave, housed in a deconsecrated church that is also a prominent feature in the album’s artwork. Mixing duties were handled by Theo Verney in Brighton.
While the band had previously been associated with a post-punk sound, Hozie emphasizes that they see themselves more as a conceptual rock band. He acknowledges that their earlier work, such as “Endless Scroll” and “Broken Equipment,” may have invited post-punk comparisons, but he feels that such labels can be limiting. According to Hozie, post-punk is conceptual punk, which initially aligned with their vision, but ultimately it’s about their unique approach to songwriting.
Lyrically, the band has steered away from explicitly sociopolitical themes in favor of a more literary approach. Hozie points to “Literary World” as a key track that embodies this shift, exploring a playful and poetic consciousness rather than a strictly political one. Hozie notes the empathetic nature of taking a literary perspective, where understanding the motivations of all characters becomes essential.
Bodega will introduce the new album with a series of shows in New York, including a gig at Central Park Summerstage alongside Spoon and Ratboy in July. They will also headline at Elsewhere Rooftop in August before embarking on a European tour in September, with a sold-out London show at the 100 Club. Additional UK dates in Bristol, London, and Leeds are scheduled for November.
The album, titled “All Inside Aquarium,” features tracks like “Weather Me,” “Astro Night Ride,” “Oxygen,” and “Olivia,” showcasing the band’s evolving sound and thematic exploration. With a diverse range of influences and a fresh perspective on their music, Bodega’s latest offering promises an exciting and innovative listening experience for fans old and new.