On our final episode of 2021, we are thrilled to welcome Kevin Whelan of the Wrens to talk about his brand new album Observatory under his new recording moniker Aeon Station. Out today on Sub Pop, the new album is his first new music since the release of The Wrens’ masterpiece The Meadowlands back in 2003.
Fans who had been waiting patiently over the years for a follow up to The Meadowlands were surprised when Whelan announced this new project in a New York Times feature last September. But while some were disappointed that these new songs would not be found on a new Wrens album, the material on Observatory ranks amongst the strongest he has ever released and it makes for a more than suitable sequel to one of indie-rock’s classic emotional roller coaster rides.
In this conversation we get into the nitty gritty on why he and his songwriting partner in the Wrens Charlie Bissell could no longer agree on finalizing their long awaited follow up to The Meadowlands, the future of Aeon Station and so much more.