Биография

Blacktop is the independent writing and recording project of Milwaukee-based multi-instrumentalist and producer, Austin Wood. Blacktop draws from a large pool of influence; from Ethiopian jazz and Latin rhythms of the 1960-70s to modern pop and alternative artists such as levitation room, Babe Rainbow, Skinshape, Loving, Andy Shauf, and Kate Bollinger. With nearly all recording, mixing, and production being done in Wood’s home studio, the music of Blacktop is adorned with gentle and dreamy vocals, washed-out guitars, and acoustic percussion and rhythmic elements. When bringing the music to a live setting, Wood is intermittently joined by friends Jordan Taylor, Jacob Slade, and others. The project's inspirational core is rooted in the spiritual and Zen philosophy of dwelling in the present moment, mindfulness, and impermanence, from which Wood often draws lyrical inspiration. Blacktop is gaining appeal, able to be heard through the airwaves on 889 Radio Milwaukee, and featured on Lilliput Record’s "Local Milwaukee Showcase". Joining a full-length release of "Sun Room" in August 2022, the project’s latest single, “Expectations”, was released Feb. 3, 2023 on streaming platforms. Outside of Blacktop, Wood also regularly performs live with Jacob Slade and Social Cig. ☮︎