Open Mike Eagle Announces New Album and Upcoming Tour
Fresh off a successful tour supporting Future Islands, Open Mike Eagle, a multifaceted artist known for his work as a rapper, screenwriter, and comedian, has revealed details about his upcoming album, Neighborhood Gods Unlimited. Set for release on July 11 through his own label, Auto Reverse Records, the album’s lead single, “contraband (the plug has bags of me),” is now available for listeners, capturing the essence of Mike’s coming-of-age experiences in his hometown of Chicago.
New Music and Themes
The single is produced by Kenny Segal, known for his collaborations with artists like Billy Woods and Benjamin Booker. With this release, Open Mike Eagle not only showcases his lyrical prowess but also dives deep into the complexities of personal growth and trauma. The song serves as a reflection of his formative years, grounding its narrative in the vivid landscapes of Chicago.
You can listen to the lead single here.
From Screen to Sound
In addition to his music career, Open Mike Eagle has ventured into television, notably with his Comedy Central show, The New Negroes. He articulated that one of his compelling ideas is a concept called Dark Comedy Television, a show about a cable network limited to airing only an hour per week. This concept draws inspiration from impactful films, such as Get Out and Sorry to Bother You, both of which delve into significant societal issues affecting marginalized communities.
Eagle’s journey in addressing these topics culminates in Neighborhood Gods Unlimited, where he aims to tackle the trauma central to his own life experiences. “The trauma at the center of Neighborhood Gods Unlimited is mine,” he stated. “I was shattered as a young person and… this is a story about how people who are trying to find themselves get confused when they encounter things that remind them of themselves.”
A Cathartic Transformation
Notably, Open Mike Eagle chose to translate his television concept into music after realizing the challenges and emotional risks associated with the television industry. He expressed, “If that had happened with a project around this particular subject matter, it would have been bad for my mental health.” This album incorporates unique thematic structures, including an opening theme, flashbacks, a climax, and even comedic elements reminiscent of commercials, showcasing his innovative approach to storytelling through music.
Upcoming Tour Schedule
Open Mike Eagle will kick off his headline tour on July 9 in Los Angeles, CA, with a series of performances across the United States. The tour promises to be an engaging experience for fans, concluding on August 16 in Washington, DC. Not only will he perform tracks from his new album, but he will also share the stage with various special guests including Cavalier and Rhys Langston.
Full Tour Dates:
- July 9: Los Angeles, CA @ The Echo
- July 10: San Francisco, CA @ Bottom of the Hill
- July 11: Portland, OR @ Mission Theater
- July 13: Seattle, WA @ Barboza
- July 14: Boise, ID @ Neurolux
- July 15: Salt Lake City, UT @ Urban Lounge
- July 17: Denver, CO @ Lost Lake
- July 19: Las Vegas, NV @ Swan Dive
- July 23: Madison, WI @ High Noon Saloon
- July 24: Chicago, IL @ Schubas Tavern
- July 25: Minneapolis, MN @ 7th St Entry
Following this tour, Open Mike Eagle will also join Phantogram for additional performances from August 31 to September 15.
Conclusion
Open Mike Eagle’s upcoming album and tour reflect his deep engagement with both personal and societal themes, marking an exciting period in his career. As he transitions his storytelling from screen to sound, his work continues to resonate with many, addressing complexities tied to identity and trauma. With Neighborhood Gods Unlimited, he not only reaffirms his place in the music industry but also opens avenues for discussing meaningful issues through artistic expression. Fans can eagerly anticipate what this new chapter will bring.
