The (Local) Fresh Five: Mother Shipton, Full Catholic, Jenny Matrix, Watson, and Dish Pit Violet

For the Fresh Five we pick out five great new(ish) jams that we’re currently obsessing over. All of these songs come from local (Minnesota) bands/artists.

Mother Shipton is a new local folk duo consisting of Mark Verdin (of Reviler favorite Verdin Brothers) as well as Matt Beachey (Oscar Tengo). The duo has an approach that engages both ends of the compositional spectrum: their process combines improvisation as well as a self-described “meticulous” composition process.  The resulting single “Ouroboros” is a beautifully crafted piece of folk instrumentation. Purchase “Ouroboros” here.

 Full Catholic, a psychedelic folk quartet, have been a fixture in the local scene for a few years now. They recently released their latest full length album Things Go Quiet. In their own words the band shoots for a “live, in-the-room sound that confronts themes of truth, courage, community, and optimism in a world that feels increasingly more bleak, distant, and isolated” (can relate). Check out “TILT” above, a melancholy post-punk tune that combines forlorn vocals over guitar, drums, and bass.  Stream/purchase the full album here.

Jenny Matrix are a local pop punk threepiece that just put out a four song EP Enter The Matrix. The production on the tracks is a bit tinny but the talent behind the hooks of “Jenny” is undeniable.  This should be a band to watch. Stream/purchase the full EP here.

Watson are a long-running quartet who just put out their seventh (!) full length album. 1406 (based on the record number of stolen bases baseballer Rickey Henderson achieved in his career) is a culmination of the band’s 20-some years playing together. In their word it’s about “the emotional curveballs of parenthood, aging, love, and holding on to the fire that first got us playing music together over 20 years ago.” Musically Watson’s sound combines piano-driven alt pop with strong, soulful vocals. Check out album lead “How Long Is The Rain Gonna Last.” Stream the full album here.

If you need a little pick me up, look no further than Dish Pit Violet’s single “Nobody’s Better,” a propulsive, funky ode to equality.  Dish Pit Violet is a queer indie pop project from Saint Paul’s Violet Fink. They’ll officially be releasing the single later this month (11/28) and will follow up with a full length album on new years day 2026. Check out a sneak peak video and stay tuned for more (and hopefully an album release show) early next year.