underscores: The Hyperpop Pioneer Redefining Digital Sound

underscores is the innovative musical alias of American producer and songwriter August Rosenstein, crafting a frenetic and emotionally charged brand of hyperpop and electronic rock. Hailing from San Francisco, California, the artist's breakthrough arrived with the critically acclaimed 2023 album "Wallsocket," a concept record that solidified their status as a leading voice in the genre's avant-garde scene.

Early career

August Rosenstein began releasing music as underscores in the late 2010s, emerging from the vibrant online collective known as "second sky." Early works like the 2019 "fishmonger" EP were self-released, showcasing a raw fusion of glitchy electronic production, distorted guitars, and confessional lyricism that quickly garnered a dedicated online following.

Breakthrough

The artist's major breakthrough came with the 2021 album "fishmonger," released via the independent label Fader Label. This project captured the chaotic energy of the burgeoning hyperpop movement, with its intricate sound design and narrative depth earning widespread critical praise from publications like Pitchfork and establishing underscores as a formidable creative force.

Key tracks

Boys lie — This early single from the "fishmonger" era became a fan favorite for its explosive blend of pop-punk energy and digital chaos.

Cops and robbers — A standout from the "Wallsocket" album, this track exemplifies the artist's sharp storytelling and complex, genre-blending production.

Locals (Girls like us) — Featuring guest artist gabby start, this anthemic song highlights underscores' skill in crafting catchy hooks within a meticulously noisy soundscape.

Old money bitch — This track from "Wallsocket" showcases a more subdued, narrative-driven side, proving the artist's range beyond maximalist production.

The momentum continued with the 2023 album "Wallsocket," a meticulously crafted concept album about small-town America. Released to further acclaim, it demonstrated significant artistic growth and featured collaborations with artists like Jane Remover and kmoe. underscores' work is often associated with the independent label Fader Label, which has been instrumental in presenting their vision to a wider audience.

Similar artists exploring the frontiers of digital rock and hyperpop include Jane Remover, who shares a penchant for destructive textures and emotional songwriting. brakence operates in a similar sphere of intricate, glitch-infused pop and DIY ethos. The experimental electronic tendencies can also be heard in the work of 100 gecs, pioneers of the hyperpop sound's chaotic appeal.

The dynamic and genre-defying music of underscores has earned regular rotation on forward-thinking online radio streams and independent music radio stations that champion electronic innovation. Listeners can frequently encounter tracks from "fishmonger" and "Wallsocket" on channels dedicated to cutting-edge pop and experimental rock.

To experience the inventive sound of underscores, you can tune into the artist's music on the various radio stations featured on our website. Discover the hyperpop pioneer's discography by listening to the curated stations available on onairium.com.