Mike Krol shares the second single “I Wonder” from his new album Power Chords (out January 25 via Merge Records). Featuring guest vocals from Allison Crutchfield, the track is a fuzzy and melodic punk gem. Krol explains further: “‘I Wonder‘ was an attempt to write an apologetic breakup song, rather than the ‘It’s all your fault’ route I normally take. I wanted to write something that was more mature in approach following a mutual breakup, or one that maybe stung at the time but years later you can admit it was for the best and wish that person well.”
Mike Krol has announced April dates in the UK following his North American tour, which includes stops at SXSW, Savannah Stopover and Treefort. A full list of shows can be found below.
Of all the breakups in Mike Krol‘s songs, the most harrowing story is about his breakup with music. In 2015, coming off of his best record yet and the ensuing world tour, Krol found himself in the midst of a full-blown existential crisis. He’d invested everything to create the rock-and-roll life he’d always wanted, but he wasn’t sure the life wanted him back. Power Chords picks up where 2015’s Turkey left off. It traces Krol’s journey back to punk rock, harnessing both the guitar technique and the musical redemption referenced in its title. To rediscover the power in those chords, Krol recorded for two-plus years in three separate locations (Nashville, Los Angeles, and Krol’s native Wisconsin) with the majority produced by Mike McCarthy (Spoon, Trail of Dead) at the studio where Neil Young recorded Harvest.
Deliriously infectious, Power Chords is an evolution in sound, structure and themes, serving as Krol’s boldest and longest record to date at 34 minutes. It’s hard-fought and hard-won, bloodied and bruised. And more importantly: defiant and triumphant.
Power Chords sees its release on vinyl, CD, and limited edition clear Peak Vinyl, and all digital formats January 25, 2019 on the seminal indie label, Merge Records. For pre-order information go here.