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DSP Shows Presents:Bumpin Uglies
w/ Joey Harkum
Friday, January 16, 2026
Bumpin Uglies
bumpinugliesmusic.com
Bumpin Uglies' latest album, Climbing Up the Wall, marks a significant chapter in the band's evolution. Following their celebrated release of their last album, Lyrics Over Everything, this latest record showcases the band's enduring commitment to authenticity, bold storytelling, and their steadfast dedication to evolving their craft.
Consisting of 14 tracks, Climbing Up the Wall vividly explores personal battles, emotional vulnerabilities, and the intricacies of everyday life. Frontman and songwriter Brandon Hardesty dives deep, tackling themes of addiction, mental health, and love with an unfiltered lyrical honesty that resonates profoundly. The album opens with "Sweet Tooth," a candid look at addiction's lingering grip, juxtaposing upbeat melodies against stark reflections. Meanwhile, songs like "Back in Bed" provide an intimate, tender snapshot of comfort found within personal connections, highlighting the band's versatility and emotional depth.
With "Burn it Down" and the dynamic road-trip tribute "I-95," Bumpin Uglies channels their renowned live energy into studio recordings, capturing the spirit and gritty charm fans have grown to expect. The album also showcases notable collaborations, most prominently on the pre-released track "Orange Crush," featuring Logan Rex of Artikal Sound System. The song blends buoyant pop melodies with reggae undertones, perfectly capturing the tension and allure of a fleeting, passionate romance.
Further pushing their musical boundaries, "Thirst Trap" introduces hip-hop influences paired with an engaging R&B chorus, showcasing the band's creative willingness to experiment beyond conventional genre norms. Tracks such as "The Crown" and "Vultures" stand out for their incisive commentary on societal expectations, industry pressures, and personal authenticity, further amplifying the band's stance on remaining true to their values and artistic identity.
Throughout the record, Hardesty’s lyricism remains both relatable and profoundly reflective. Songs like "Crawling Up the Wall" and "Darkness" delve deeply into mental health struggles, candidly confronting anxiety, depression, and the isolation that often accompanies them. Yet, there’s a prevailing sense of hope and resilience woven throughout the album—particularly evident in songs such as "Growing Pains" and "Falling," which grapple openly with fatherhood, legacy, and the balance of personal fulfillment against familial responsibility.
Continuing their signature independent approach, Climbing Up the Wall preserves the gritty, authentic production style that has become synonymous with Bumpin Uglies. Distributed independently, the album’s production emphasizes emotional clarity and lyrical poignancy over polished perfection, further strengthening their deep connection with fans.
With a fiercely loyal following known as Uglies Nation, Bumpin Uglies’ commitment to their craft and their audience remains unshakeable. This album cements their reputation for delivering music that is both introspective and rebellious, deeply personal yet universally accessible.
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Joey Harkum
joeyharkum.com
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Event Venue & Nearby Stays
TheDrake, 44 N. Pleasant St,Amherst,MA,United States
Tickets
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