This story was originally published as part of Upbeat Nonsense Issue #1 and separately reposted December 9.
event — 12/6
Bury the Pines levels up Midwest emo with new album, Industry Plant
It’s a literal industry plant, get it? Album art by Elizabeth Benes
While I can’t time travel out of this cursed timeline, Bury the Pines first album takes us back to a simpler one. Pre-save “Industry Plant” ahead of its release party this Saturday, Dec. 6 at Rialto Theatre.
“Industry Plant” is a snapshot of the internal struggles of each band member over the last three years. The album features songs about political gripes, the current state of the music scene and even lost love. Since 2022, the band has released five singles and all are featured on the album.
We chose emo because there’s a lot to feel right now.
“We write what we know,” lead singer Marcus Smith said. “Our bassist is huge into prog rock like Rush. My solo stuff is funky and soulful. We also like anime, Japanese pop and rock. It’s a little bit of everything.”
When asked, “Why emo?” Smith laughed and replied, “Why not emo?”
Nearly all of the band members are from Northeast Ohio. Smith (lead vocals) is from Cleveland, Nick Fischer (bassist) from Parma, Mat Markuz (drummer) from Akron, Joe Skowronski (lead guitarist) from Cuyahoga Falls and Evan Hendrix (guitarist and audio engineer) from South Haven, MI.
Bury the Pines band members (left to right) Mat, Joe, Evan, Nick and Marcus (center). Credit: Josh Bonnell
Guitarist Skowronski chimed in, “We like to have a good time.” Everyone contributes to writing the songs and its very collaborative, he said.
Bury the Pines is seeking votes for “Best New Artist” and “Best Alternative Band” for the upcoming Cleveland Music Awards. Smith is also hoping to secure a “Best Vocalist” nomination for his solo work. Nominations close Dec. 16.
Grab your tickets ($10-15) to the album release party this Saturday, Dec. 6 at the Rialto Theatre in Akron. Doors open at 7 p.m.