Episode 61: The Royal Arctic Institute

Episode 61 of Look At My Records! is the first in a series of episodes previewing the upcoming North Jersey Indie Rock Festival.  The annual fest is now in its third year and is happening at White Eagle Hall on Saturday, October 6th!

For the first installment, I chatted with The Royal Arctic Institute.  Comprised of Lyle Hysen (Das Damen), Gerard Smith (Phantom Tollbooth), and John Leon (Rory Erickson), this highly pedigreed power-trio plays an eclectic blend of post-punk and cinematic jazz instrumentals.  Tune in to hear about the group’s formation, their music, and upcoming gigs. Plus, the dudes made some excellent picks from my record collection including The Specials, Richard Hell, and The Psychedelic Furs!

The band’s second LP, “Accidental Achievement,” is scheduled for release on Friday, October 19th via Rhyme & Reason Records.  Tune in to hear two brand new songs from this forthcoming LP, “Northern Progress Exploration Company” and “Raymond Roussell.” The group is also releasing a cassette single, “Russian Twists,” for Cassette Store Day on October 13th. You can also hear that song in this episode!  

In addition to playing the North Jersey Indie Rock Festival on October 6th, The Royal Arctic Institute has a busy gig schedule for September and October. You can catch them at the following shows:

October 18th at Pianos with Problem People, Yawn Mower, Ultra Major, A Bird, and This Bliss

October 19th at The Nest with Wharton Tiers Ensemble and The Wiremen

October 20th at Guitar Bar Jr.

November 9th at Quinn'sBeacon, NY, United States

November 11th at The Bowery Electric with Antietam, Sleepyhead

November 13th at Pet Shop with The Special Pillow

Get your tickets to the North Jersey Indie Rock Festival RIGHT NOW: https://www.ticketfly.com/event/1744675-north-jersey-indie-rock-jersey-city/