Sophie Sputnik, professionally known as Waltzer, is a Chicago based singer songwriter and artist. She began her career in the swampy, punk rock scene of South Florida before moving to Chicago to pursue her next project. In Chicago, Sophie drew on the influences which dominated the scene she grew up in, such as Iggy Pop, The White Stripes, and The Ronettes to name a few. A collision occurred upon meeting the folks of the Chicago music scene as she found herself working with musicians of all different backgrounds and styles, leading to the creation of Waltzer’s debut album “Time Traveler.” Drawing from her timeless adoration for Orbison, Etta, And Harrison, songs like “Lantern” and “Destroyer” found their soul in producer Chris Devlin’s home and recorded on tape at Treehouse records. “Time Traveler” is an homage to the folks who wrestle with death and failure - something Sophie is familiar with. Although the lyrics get heavy, Waltzer’s stage performance has a sarcastic undertone which reverberates through the record and helps the listener stay afloat. Her message is clear, “Life is really hard / I’m messed up too / Let’s get through it together and laugh at all the weird stuff.” https://wltzr.bandcamp.com There’s a paradoxically perfect union between a broken heart and cowboy twang. Tyler Dozier’s songs as Lady Dan tap even deeper into that sublime intersection where searing pain can reach sublime heights. Her own tale of hurt comes complete with multilayered existential quandaries, of empowerment and restriction, of life and death, of faith and its absence. On her debut album I Am the Prophet April 23rd 2021 via Earth Libraries, the Austin-based musician weaves intensely personal storytelling, poetic imagery, biblical allusion, immaculate arrangements, and crackling songwriting into an irresistible melancholic melange. https://www.ladydanmusic.com With support from Sarah Burke and Eva LoVullo.