Depression Nap, the indie-rock project led by Luke Berglin, has unveiled its much-anticipated debut album, titled Midnight Music. This release comes after a challenging period during the pandemic, which, for many, including Berglin, was marked by significant personal struggles. Despite these hurdles, he found inspiration to create music that encapsulates the experience of living through COVID-19.
In 2022, Berglin, also known as Urban Castro, began to channel his feelings into songwriting, leading to the formation of Depression Nap. After a series of singles and an EP, he is now set to celebrate the album’s launch with a performance at The Boiled Owl this Friday night.
“I guess I was going through the post-COVID challenges we all faced,” Berglin reflected. “I had been laid off for the second time in three years, which caused me PTSD and anxiety over lost benefits. I decided it was time to write and craft actual songs.”
Berglin describes Depression Nap more as a collective than a traditional band. Alongside him are talented musicians including multi-instrumentalist Daniel Markham, guitarist Kevin England of Cool Jacket, drummer Joshua Graves from YellowBelly, multi-instrumentalist Joey Johnson of Oatmeal Pizza, bassist Jackdaw Russell of Crooked Bones, and multi-instrumentalist Ryan Thomas, all of whom have contributed to the project.
Recording took place at an art house owned by Fort Worth printmaker Andrew Hammond Kendall, located a couple of hours west of Fort Worth in Romney. Markham later mastered the album at his home studio in February.
“Working with Markham is very natural and laid back,” Berglin noted. “We’re friends, so it feels like just hanging out. I’ve recorded with him a couple of times now, and he has this ability to get into a groove and produce quickly. We both value the immediacy of creation, avoiding overthinking and simply getting things done. Our shared references help us stay in sync, and collaborating with him is always a joy.”
The album features nine tracks, including standout pieces like “Toughen Up,” “I’ll Find a Way,” and “Crucified,” which delve into profound, often transcendental themes. Markham also lends his talents on bass and drums, particularly on the semi-gothic track “Ghost,” where Berglin’s haunting baritone delivers poignant lyrics reflecting on feelings of isolation and regret.
Midnight Music serves as a reflection of the tumultuous times during the pandemic and an artist’s responsibility to convey genuine emotions and experiences.
“Knowing that I can create something that resonates with people and allows me to perform is a huge motivator to keep producing music,” Berglin expressed. “It’s incredibly fulfilling to express myself through music; it aids in processing my feelings and provides a sense of purpose.”
Depression Nap Album Release Show
9:30 PM Friday with YellowBelly at The Boiled Owl Tavern, 909 W Magnolia Ave, Fort Worth. No cover. 21+. 817-920-9616.
