Austin, TX – Indie band Under The Rug has released part one of their new 2-part album, happiness is easy. This ambitious collection marks a significant milestone in the band’s evolving sound and artistic vision, capturing the essence of contemporary struggles and triumphs through a unique blend of indie rock and introspective lyricism. happiness is easy =) is now available on vinyl and CD via the band’s website, and to stream and download on all digital platforms worldwide.
happiness is easy =) is a 30-song 2-part album that delves into the complexities of finding happiness in today’s world. The album, produced by the band themselves, explores themes of joy, resilience, and the human experience. The tracklist includes singles such as “mad girl’s love song,” “laugh a lot” and “i don’t want to cry in my car anymore,” showcasing the band’s diary-esque songwriting process and diverse influences. The album features contributions from renowned co-writers and musicians. Songs like “mad girl’s love song,” “i don’t want to cry in my car anymore,” and “you are a body” were co-written with Sam Hollander (Panic! at the Disco, Banners, Fitz and the Tantrums). Additionally, the album includes a feature with Mason Jennings and synths and vocals by Basic Printer, the latter of who will be touring with the band this fall. The record was mastered by Phillip Shaw Bova (Angel Olsen, Devendra Banhart, Father John Misty), and engineered by David Peters, an understudy of Mercury Rev member Dave Fridmann.
Lead vocalist Casey Dayan explains that the album’s title, happiness is easy =), is meant to be tongue-in-cheek, reflecting on the often elusive nature of happiness. The songs explore a wide range of emotions and experiences, from grappling with one’s identity to confronting life’s unexpected challenges. Dayan, who wrote the album while coming to terms with her transness, describes it as a continuation of their previous work, Homesick For Another World. “It’s just a natural continuation,” Dayan says. “It’s a big work, and it covers a lot of ground, musically.”
Over the past decade, Austin-based indie band Under The Rug has embarked on a heartfelt musical journey that deeply resonates with their audience. Featuring vocalist and guitarist Casey Dayan, guitarist Sean Campbell, and drummer Brendan McQueeney, the band skillfully blends indie, folk, and Americana with a strong emphasis on storytelling. Renowned for their DIY marketing approach, they’ve cultivated a dedicated fan base through handwritten letters and their exclusive membership service, The Secret Hideout. Praised by notable publications such as American Songwriter, Under The Radar, Rolling Stone India, and Atwood Magazine, and endorsed by John Darnielle of The Mountain Goats, Under The Rug has made significant waves in the indie music scene. Their acclaimed Junior LP, Homesick For Another World, and the viral hit “Lonesome and Mad” have further solidified their reputation. With their new release, happiness is easy =), and an exciting headlining US tour on the horizon, Under The Rug is set to continue their remarkable success and touch even more hearts with their genuine and evocative music.
Don’t miss the chance to experience Under The Rug’s latest work — stream happiness is easy =) now, follow them on Instagram @UnderTheRugMusic, and visit their website UnderTheRugMusic.com for tour dates and more information.
