_{By Madeline Harris}

Provo officially has its own Midwest emo anthem—and it’s brought to us by Glue Coast.

The first time I listened to the band’s debut EP, (yeehaw), it was a crisp day in early September, and the feeling of fall was on the horizon; the day was gray and cool and mellow. I pressed play on this EP, and let me tell you— nothing has ever matched the vibe of Utah in the fall so perfectly. Its production? Crisper than the multicolor leaves that crunch underfoot this time of year. Its themes? Moody enough to match picturesque Utah winter storms. (yeehaw) is like if ska was painted black, wore weathered high-top Converse, and never left the house without a beanie. It’s an EP that has earned its proper place in my go-to listens for the colder months alongside other comfort classics like Neutral Milk Hotel or Belle and Sebastian—and will accompany my coffee shop outings this winter. 

Salt Lake-based Glue Coast first started playing live shows last winter, bringing to the limelight a sound blending ska and Midwest emo. They’ve got ambient math rock riffs and Utah-specific lyrics and summarize their sound as “sad music for cool uncles” via their Instagram. (yeehaw) does so well what any emo-adjacent project should aim for: the simultaneous and seamless blend of emotionally-packed chaos with comforting relatability. The listener recognizes and connects with the broad range of introspective angst the EP touches on. All the while, floating and bittersweet instrumentals add a nostalgic dimension to the sound. I attribute this primarily to the melodic trombone featured in all five songs. It’s a charismatic and versatile tool that serves different purposes in each song. 

Take its use in “Evergreen.” The trombone introduces itself in the song’s chorus as a background element, letting the contemplative vocals of the chorus remain in the forefront. It floats around the soundscape in anticipatory bittersweetness and is reminiscent of indie-emo anthems of the late nineties.

Or, for a heavier and moodier example that packs a punch, check out “Provo,” my personal favorite. The track opens with a looming, steady, and stormy percussion that’s hard not to sync your steps to as you brood over memories grown sour. Little by little, the ambient trombone stretches and builds tension until, all at once, everything comes full circle. The chorus greets you and your ears are met with a satisfying auditory explosion that suits the edge of the song so well. The trombone’s power is released in full force, and screaming background vocals so perfectly wrap up this moody package that has claimed its home here in Utah.

 This EP checks off all the boxes of necessary components of a well-rounded Midwest emo project, including a heartfelt spoken word sample. A tough-and-tender monologue by wrestling icon Randy “Macho Man” Savage is at the heart of Glue Coast’s most streamed single, “Macho Mania.” It’s a ridiculously singalong-able song, with lyrics that are emotionally multidimensional but still manage to get to the point with impeccable clarity.

The most impressive thing about (yeehaw) is how complete it feels, especially given that it’s the band’s first release. It leaves no question unanswered, no emo corner unscathed. All at once, it’s warm and familiar and jarring and sentimental and leaves the listener fully satisfied. The only question that’s left to ask after indulging in the full-spectrum experience that is (yeehaw), is: “Where can I get more??”

I look forward to more Glue Coast content to come down the road. In the meantime, (yeehaw) is ours to cherish this winter. So next time you find yourself cruising on the I-15 past Provo, do yourself a favor and turn on “Provo”—you won’t regret it.

Make sure to follow Glue Coast on Instagram and listen to “Provo” below!