When Parker Gispert helped to found indie rock band The Whigs in 2002, he didn’t know where the universe would take him. Now, after nearly 20 years of international touring and multiple late night appearances, Gispert has struck out on a solo career that has proven to be both commercially successful and personally edifying. The charismatic frontman, after finding solace in the acoustic arrangements of his debut album, Sunlight Tonight, has chosen instead to return to his rock roots, cranking up the amps and delivering hooky songs supported by an all-star cast of musicians, including Thayer Sarrano, John Kent, Rob Crowell and Evan Penza. Lyrically, Gispert’s songs touch on the political climate, but don’t wade in. Much inspiration for songs on the new album, entitled Golden Years, is drawn from Gispert’s memories of early childhood, and the musical influences which imprinted on him while growing up in the 1990s—namely, alternative rock and grunge. Gispert is celebrating the release of Golden Years with an album release show at the 40 Watt, also featuring Nashville indie outfit Country Westerns and local bootgaze group The Air Condition.
WHO: Parker Gispert, Country Westerns, The Air Condition
WHEN: Friday, Aug. 26, 8 p.m.
WHERE: 40 Watt Club
HOW MUCH: $15
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