By: Emily Collins

Are you new to the Madison DIY scene? Want to catch up on what's happening in basements across the city? These recent releases, ranging from early December until now, will get you familiar with some of the best bands around.

Eat Turf, Live at the Mousetrap (December 2nd, 2024)

Eat Turf's Live at the Mousetrap was a highly anticipated release, hitting the internet almost three months after it was recorded in September of 2024. This one is incredibly special to me, as that exact show was my very first DIY show, ever.  Live at the Mousetrap brings us just over 40 minutes of Eat Turf bits and songs, most of which had never been formally recorded. Previous to this album, only “Sludge County” and “The Bus Driver” were available. This LP even includes the reading of a poem by the legendary Thax Douglas, who many will recognize by his iconic presence in the Madison scene. Hardcore punk is at the roots of Eat Turf's sound, and it is extremely evident with the live recording. Energy is high, both the band and the crowd are so excited, and I think a live recording is the best way to transmit that feeling to an album.

Dad Bods, Powerbelly (December 6th, 2024)

Hard hitting drum and bass duo Dad Bods closed out the year with Powerbelly, a fitting name for their often shirtless gigs. Their sound is extremely full for a band of just two people. That fullness lies in bassist Sean's choice in effects pedals, which add layers through multiple octaves and lots of distortion. Similar to Eat Turf, Dad Bods' sound fits in the hardcore genre, but definitely doesn't sound like any old hardcore band. They reach into something even more primal, especially in their gritty vocals, but also experiment with spoken word and sfx samples. This is best encompassed on “Tribal Shit” which is my personal favorite track of theirs. Overall, Powerbelly is nothing to scoff at, and is worth a listen for all of the unique elements they bring to the table.

Cause and Control, Coyote EP (January 25th, 2025)

Cause and Control's first EP, Coyote, includes five songs, two which were previously released as singles. Ever since I heard whisperings about this being in the works, I was waiting eagerly on the edge of my seat for these songs. Each track displays everything great about Cause and Control, from the impossible-not-to-dance feel of “Pirouette” to “Coyote” and its intricate jam-like progression. “Hillclimber”, their second ever single, was even remastered for this release. If you have ever had the pleasure of seeing Cause and Control live, it is evident that their passion for music is infectious, and it translates well to their recorded media. Each time I listen to the Coyote EP, I feel the same unadulterated joy every time I'm in front of them live. Unlike the above two groups, Cause leans into a more indie rock sound, becoming more approachable for those who aren't into hardcore. I would recommend this incredible EP to fans of any related genre.

James Norcross, “Start It Over” (Single, February 21st, 2025)

Indie powerhouse James Norcross leads us into spring with “Start It Over”, his latest single. This release follows the EP Advanced Placement, which he released last November. The new single is most reminiscent of “who's gonna know you now?”, with a driving feel and powerful build to the end. James' songwriting skills really shine in this song. The lyrics paint a picture of someone wishing to “start it over” with someone falling away from them, even though they know it won't be the same as the version of them in their mind. Despite the melancholy content, the melody is so gorgeous and memorable I often have it stuck in my head all day. This song is a must when prepping a playlist for spring.

Supercritical, Supercritical LP (March 7th, 2025)

Supercritical says a triumphant farewell with the release of their self-titled LP. Blending elements of hardcore, shoegaze, and something out of my dreams, the resulting album is nothing short of a cinematic experience. The opening track, “brutality”, sends me back to somewhere in my childhood. Standing on the dry grass on a humid July afternoon, looking up at the dark clouded sky that soon would bring a thunderstorm. You're quickly snapped out of this dreamscape by the rawness of the following track, “ULTRA”, a heavy-sounding yet optimistic song. Their first show in exactly one year took place on the album's release date, and will be their last show ever. The scene is sad to see them go, but at least we are left with a great album in their stead.