Public Figures (Photo by Marcela Morales)
DC post-punk duo Public Figures today release “Shark Song,” their debut number, and they play a livestream show at Rhizome DC as well!
If you’re like us, you’ll be pleased to see Van Hillard (drums/vox) and Chad McCall (bass/vox/theremin) reunite in this new project after the dissolution of Park Snakes, formerly one of DC’s best indie rock bands.
After individually cutting their teeth in various punk bands such as the Harley Krishnas and Cars Under 1000 in the ’90s, Van and Chad have been performing together since Y2K on the dot, spending much of the 21st century in post-punk quartet People Chasing People and more recently DC rock noir outfit Park Snakes.
“Shark Song” is a spirited embodiment of what Public Figures is: creative and seemingly effortless expression. From amidst the wallop of Hillard’s drums and McCall’s lively bass — which is split between two amps to create what has become Public Figures’ signature sound — emerges a playful, delightfully odd collection of call and response lyrics: All hail the shark, and not just the great white shark (Your dear friend is circling beneath).
“It just kind of came out of the blue while walking. One of those wayward ideas of such unidentifiable origin and so leftfield that you absolutely must trust them,” Van said of the song. “It’s a lot of fun and very pure of heart.”
Stream “Shark Song” by Public Figures on YouTube:
“Shark Song” appears on Year of Garuda, Public Figures’ debut record, which unfolds straight from the source, a riotous, fun, and sincere chapter in the artists’ decades-long journey.
Year of Garuda was recorded by Chad and Van in their basement studio – the affectionately titled House of Decay. The songs were tracked almost entirely live, creating a sound that promises to be fulfilled faithfully and with vigor when live shows return. The pair have played in various D.C. bands including Park Snakes and People Chasing People, which have shared the bill with a host of notable acts, such as French Vanilla, Priests, the Dismemberment Plan, Lithics, and more.
Tonight, Public Figures appear with Jaron Lanier and Programmes at Rhizome.
Screened Out
An Evening with Jaron Lanier
w/ Public Figures and Programs
Rhizome via Twitch
Friday, March 26
Show @ 8pm ET
$5-$20
Suggested donation
All ages