By Nigel P. Snodgrass
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In an industry where artists strive to connect with their audience and build a following, Post Age seems determined to remain an obscure, self-indulgent enigma. This Cleveland, Ohio-based group has churned out eight full-length albums and numerous singles, all to an audience that can be counted on one hand. Despite their musical talent, their refusal to embrace any form of conventional promotion and their bizarre insistence on anonymity have left them languishing in well-deserved obscurity.
Photos featuring members in ski masks and sunglasses might create an air of mystery, but in reality, they serve as a barrier to genuine connection with their audience. Instead of fostering curiosity, it alienates listeners who might otherwise engage more deeply with the music. Their sarcastic and often irreverent social media presence does little to alleviate this, what they seem to consider a clever commentary on the music industry. Their Instagram bio claims they are "Ohio noise electro future sleaze post-music neo-art pop digital alt-punk experimental indie synthcore." While this might be intended as a tongue-in-cheek description, it reads more like a desperate attempt to cover every possible genre to hide the fact that they haven’t found success in any of them.
Their disdain for traditional promotion is both perplexing and self-sabotaging. Post Age revels in their underground status, shunning any form of mainstream recognition and turning down promotional opportunities. This anti-commercial stance might seem commendable to some, but in practice, it ensures their music remains unheard. They have a minuscule following on both social media and streaming platforms, a testament to their ineffective approach to audience engagement.
The band's refusal to engage in traditional promotion or live performances further hampers their potential. Their one and only live performance was a VR-enabled virtual club event, which might sound like a novel concept that allowed fans to experience their music in an immersive setting, in practice just feels like another layer of detachment. This approach might appeal to a niche audience, but it severely limits their reach and impact, making it seem like they are more interested in being a well-kept secret. While this innovative use of technology was commendable, it also highlighted their reluctance to engage in more traditional live performances, which could help build a more substantial following.
Their upcoming album, "HIGH FASHION EMO," is a reluctant highlight in this otherwise frustrating narrative. It’s almost annoying to admit, but this album is their best work yet. Each track is a masterclass in blending disparate musical elements into a cohesive whole. There's an oddity to their sound that is inexplicably captivating, and despite my better judgment, I find myself drawn to the strange allure of this album. The inconsistency can be frustrating for some listeners who appreciate its moments of brilliance but are left scratching their heads at other times. Somehow, against all odds, they seem to pull it off.
They seamlessly switch between genres within single tracks, creating an eclectic soundscape that is as innovative as it is bewildering. This genre-defying approach could position them as trailblazers, but instead they will likely continue to confine themselves to the depths of obscurity.
In summary, Post Age is a band that embodies both the best and the most frustrating aspects of modern music. They are undeniably talented, creating music that is innovative and engaging. Yet, their commitment to remaining obscure and their often aloof public persona make them difficult to fully embrace. They are a paradox—an underground gem that shines brightly but remains intentionally hidden, leaving one to wonder what heights they could reach if they ever decided to stop sabotaging their own potential. -NPS
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Nigel P. Snodgrass The Pretentious Hipster's Weekly
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