Chicago-based indie rockers Fruit Bats have been making music on their own terms for a decade, spending most of that time in a rather sweet spot as part of the Sub Pop Records roster. Having already released three other albums with the legendary label, the quintet are prepping the release of their latest LP Tripper, which drops August 2nd. Taking inspiration from a personal experience with a random fellow traveler named Tony (and the namesake for the track “Tony the Tripper”), frontman Eric D. Johnson expanded upon a chance encounter and created an album full of wanderlust and reflection. An official tracklist has not been revealed to date, but other songs titles will include “So Long,” “Tangie and Ray,” and “Wild Honey,” according to a recent press release.

Not appearing on the album, however, is an uber sweet collaboration with J. Mascis titled “WACS.” What that means, we have no clue, but you can stream the track below. Head on over to the Fruit Bats artist page to score a free download.

In addition to an appearance at Portland, OR’s Pickathon Music Festival this August, Fruit Bats will be taking the stage to headline the Huichica Music Festival in Sonoma, CA on June 4th. Co-curated by Johnson and Jeff Bundschu, whose Gundlach Bundschu winery is hosting the event, the day will be packed with good food, good wine, and good music. Also appearing at the festival are Richard Switft, Sonny & the Sunsets, and J. Mascis, among others. Check out the Huichica Music Festival website for more information.

WACS