On September 6, Philadelphia-based band Webb Chapel will release their anticipated new album, World Cup via Strange Mono Records (pre-order).
Formed in 2021 Strange Mono is a charity record label and distro based in Philadelphia, PA. Specializing in limited edition releases, all the proceeds from tapes, and 100% of downloads, go directly to the artists choice of benefit. Webb Chapel has picked the Philadelphia Animal Welfare Society (PAWS) which is a rescue organization / no kill shelter in Philly.
Limited edition vinyl available in two color ways. Ruby (Jewel-toned ruby with inclusions of platinum and red) and Obsidian (Variegated obsidian with inclusions of granite and steel). Pressed at Studio 4 Vinyl using a blend of eco friendly recycled vinyl that has been processed and cleaned. The repurposed mixes have been carefully selected to create one of a kind color ways that are environmentally friendly while still providing crispy clean audio quality
Today, Webb Chapel is thrilled to release “Springtime,” the lead single from World Cup. The track explores themes of life, death, and rebirth. The song premiered on Post-Trash and is now streaming on all major platforms. Rachel Gordon, vocalist and bassist, reflects on the song’s creation: “When Zack [Claxton] sent over his home recorded demo, it was already called ‘Springtime,’ which sparked a theme of life and renewal in my mind. My experiences as a grave gardener at Woodlands cemetery further shaped the lyrics, imagining the life of Mary Brown through her garden. The lyrics are basically me trying to imagine this lady as a whole person with multiple roles in her life, while trying to tend to her garden and hoping she’s happy with it.”
World Cup marks Webb Chapel’s evolution from a solo project to a collaborative band effort. Recorded and mixed over six intense days with engineer Dan Angel, the album captures the band’s dynamic energy and creative instincts. Primary guitarist and songwriter Zack Claxton comments on the recording process: “The studio environment pushed us to rework and refine our songs, revealing new dimensions and creative possibilities.”
Featuring Rachel Gordon (Nine of Swords, Greg Electric) on vocals for standout tracks like “Black Car” and “Springtime,” Webb Chapel showcases a blend of urgency and introspection throughout World Cup. Joined by With Josh Lesser (Blue Smiley, TAGABOW) on guitar and Christian Mailloux (Sweepers) on drums, the album solidifies Webb Chapel’s lineup with some of Philadelphia’s top musical talents.
World Cup not only underscores Webb Chapel’s evolution from impulsive home recordings to deliberate studio sessions but also establishes them as a force in Philadelphia’s vibrant music scene. The intentions Webb Chapel set with World Cup lay the foundations for the city’s best new secret; an unpinnable project, faceless and shapeless, cemented in trust and intuition.