The Ophelias, an eclectic ensemble featuring Spencer Peppet (guitar & vocals), Mic Adams (drums), Andrea Gutmann Fuentes (violin), and Jo Shaffer (bass), are thrilled to announce the upcoming release of their new EP, “Ribbon,” slated for April 12th. Alongside this announcement, they unveil their latest single and video, “Black Ribbon,” showcasing the band’s evolution and deepening artistry. Formed in their high school days with Peppet, Adams, and Fuentes as the founding members, and later joined by Shaffer in 2019, The Ophelias initially embraced the label of an “all-girl band.” Today, they stand proudly as a beacon of queer and trans joy and inclusivity. “Ribbon” marks a significant milestone, ushering the band into the realms of adulthood with a collection of songs that delve into the nuanced territories of morality, friendship, and the indefinable spaces in between.
“Black Ribbon,” the EP’s standout track, dives headfirst into the complexities of a burgeoning queer relationship, setting itself apart with a rich, synth-heavy arrangement and a distinct shoegaze influence. Spencer Peppet’s lyrical prowess is on full display, weaving a narrative that captures the exhilarating uncertainty of new love with lines that resonate with a poetic intensity: “Some kind of desire // That I cannot categorize // You are a Springsteen song // Dark sky in overdrive into the warm night.” The accompanying video, co-directed by Shaffer and Peppet, is a visual feast, blending the band’s dynamic performance with evocative, Midwestern landscapes that perfectly complement the song’s emotional landscape. The Ophelias’ “Black Ribbon” is not just a song; it’s an immersive experience, inviting listeners into the intimate, often indescribable moments of queer love and identity.