Join us on Friday, October 17 as we welcome Dan Dipiero to celebrate the publication of his new book. Big Feelings examines a recent resurgence in the indie music scene, led by young, queer, feminist artists including Soccer Mommy, Indigo De Souza, Jay Som, SASAMI, The Ophelias, Vagabon, boygenius, and more.

By bringing listeners’ experiences into the analysis, DiPiero shows how indie rock feminisms have shifted since the 1990s, rejecting overt political messages in favor of sonic catharsis, and reflecting the complex, ambivalent feeling of being young while the world burns. In reprising the sounds of an alt-rock associated in public consciousness with white male pain, Big Feelings music doubles down on the stereotypical association between femininity and emotionality to perform whole spectrums of feeling in varied states of overwhelm. In doing so, these artists draw attention to overlooked histories of women and queer musicians who have been forging indie rock all along, while also remaking how the music matters in the present.

We’ll be hearing from Dan about his book and, of course, also listening to some of the music it features.

If you’d like to reserve a copy in advance, order here.

About the Author: Dan DiPiero is Assistant Professor of Music at Boston University. He is also the author of Contingent Encounters: Improvisation in Music and Everyday Life (2022).