On June 6, Chicago-based Lifeguard will release their debut album, "Ripped and Torn," on Matador Records. The young trio, consisting of Asher Case (bass, baritone guitar, vocals), Isaac Lowenstein (drums, synth), and Kai Slater (guitar, vocals), has been making music together since high school—almost a quarter of their lives. Loud and direct, cryptic but heartfelt, their songs draw inspiration from punk, dub, power pop, and experimental sounds, bringing it all together in an explosive sound of now. Recorded last year in Chicago with producer Randy Randall (No Age), the album captures a claustrophobic eccentricity that evokes the feeling and energy of house parties and tightly packed rooms, where the ears are easily overwhelmed and ragged improvisations connect with the same force as melodic hooks. The band was already one of the absolute insider tips at the 2023 SWSW and impressed with their thrilling live shows, which were also showcased here last year. In conjunction with the album release, the band will return to Germany for two shows and play in Berlin on the release day! Lifeguard are at the forefront of new bands whose creative melting pot is located in and around Chicago and recently spawned the band Horsegirl. The scene consists of musicians, fanzine creators, and concert promoters and is inspired by the DIY indie movement of the 90s.