Interview: Ax and the Hatchetmen’s ‘So Much to Tell You’ Captures Seven Years of Friendship, Adventures, and Coming-of-Age Moments in a Landmark Debut Album - Atwood Magazine

      The Chicago-based indie rock group Ax and the Hatchetmen has unveiled their vibrant and exhilarating debut LP titled 'So Much to Tell You.' This spirited coming-of-age album serves as a heartfelt tribute to their formative experiences, merging seven years of friendship with playful narratives, memorable hooks, and a contagious youthful vigor.

      'So Much to Tell You' – Ax and the Hatchetmen

      Chicago's Ax and the Hatchetmen certainly have a wealth of stories to share. The indie rock band marks their coming-of-age with their eagerly awaited debut album, a compilation of cherished recollections, love, and collaboration. The candid and vividly titled 'So Much to Tell You' draws from real-life moments and unexpected sources of inspiration—from “Blurry Lights” featuring The Strokes’ Albert Hammond Jr. to “7×9,” a whimsical reinterpretation of a Rivers Cuomo demo—creating a lively assortment of tracks influenced by seven years of camaraderie, storytelling, and exploring ideas. The end result is an album that feels genuine and sincere, filled with authentic moments, colorful backstories, and an uplifting charm. These twelve tracks outline Ax and the Hatchetmen’s journey, showcasing their evolution and the pivotal experiences that shaped them, inviting listeners onto their captivating and intimate adventure.

      So Much to Tell You – Ax and the Hatchetmen

      The lineup of Ax and the Hatchetmen includes frontman Axel Ellis (vocals/guitar), Sal Defilippis (guitar), Hunter Olshefke (bass), drummer Nick Deputy, trumpeter Phil Pistone, and saxophonist Quinn Dolan. The six musicians first crossed paths in music school while studying jazz in Chicago, officially forming their band in 2018. Although they have since evolved past their jazz roots, that shared foundation and years spent writing, touring, and growing together have influenced their dynamic, recognizable sound beloved by fans.

      This past July, the group released 'Constant Change,' an EP that provided an early glimpse into the world of 'So Much to Tell You.' Now, the album quickly seizes the listener's attention. The opener “Red Carpet” is brief yet engaging, reflecting on high school parties and the formative memories that anchor much of this record.

      The second track, “Flagstaff,” is a well-loved favorite released in 2024. It exudes a feel-good vibe that makes you want to hit the road and see new places. Alongside “Flagstaff” is the optimistic single “Love Songs,” also from 2024.

      If you thought math was a thing of the past, think again. “7×9” brings back memories of school and basic multiplication tables. Regardless of past experiences with math, Ax and the Hatchetmen take an imaginative approach in this lighthearted song. They even donned school uniforms for the music video, giving a playful spin to the theme.

      Seven times nine equals sixty-three

      She looks so incredibly fine

      I may not know much, but I believe it's true

      I want to spend my life making love to you

      Next on the album is “Lucy,” a charming love ballad with sincere lyrics about falling in love.

      Lucy, you’ve left your mark on me

      I’m not going anywhere, no

      Lucy, it's forever you and me

      Tonight and for eternity

      Following is “Oasis,” centered around romance. It’s about that special person who revitalizes you, akin to a refreshing drink on a hot day. The lyrics depict a love that envelops you completely, highlighting someone who captivates your every thought and emotion.

      You’re my sole motivation

      No doubts at all

      Do you hear what I’m saying?

      You’re like a cold drink of water

      In a desert

      Oh girl, you’re my oasis

      Axel Ellis drew from a personal experience to create the catchy anthem “Blurry Lights.” Not only is the melody infectious, but the song also holds a special place in the band’s heart, as they collaborated with their idol, Albert Hammond Jr. of The Strokes.

      A recent Atwood Editor’s Pick, “Hotel Room” encapsulates the feeling of being in one location while longing for another. It perfectly conveys the restlessness one can feel when away from loved ones.

      So much to tell you

      Trapped in this hotel room

      Can’t do what I really want to

      I’ve been climbing the walls

      And I can’t settle into

      Not being close to you

      Not wearing half your perfume

      While I’m singing your song

      “Model Citizen” features lively backing vocals and distinctive instrumentation, with Ellis expressing heartfelt reflections on growth. “Sunscreen” portrays the thoughts of someone who still clings to a past relationship.

      “Stay // Honestly” is yet another single that poses a question:

      So would you say you can remain here for me?

      Because I’m hurting from what we thought was meant to be

      The album’s final track, “New Years,” concludes with