San Francisco Bay Area musician Shawn Stedman, under the moniker Meat in Space, delivers a bold and nostalgic debut with his EP Tangerine. Released on December 7, 2024, this five-track collection fuses garage rock, psych rock, ’90s alternative, and grunge, showcasing Stedman’s raw talent and his commitment to a DIY ethos.
The title track, “Tangerine,” is a standout, steeped in citrus imagery as a metaphor for breaking free from despondency. Written in a lightning bolt of creativity, the track required almost no rewriting—a testament to its natural flow and emotional clarity. Its rough-edged garage rock feel and tight instrumentation are instantly gripping.
“Chromium Dioxide” takes listeners on a psychedelic journey with dense soundscapes and hypnotic rhythms, while “Ruby Tourmaline” channels grunge influences reminiscent of early Nirvana. This track is deeply emotive, balancing intensity with a sense of introspection.
The quirky storytelling of “Hyperion Ham” offers a playful yet layered listening experience. Its infectious riffs and surreal undertones highlight Stedman’s knack for blending the experimental with the accessible. The closing track, “Call The Coroner,” is a cathartic anthem that lingers in the mind long after it ends, leaving a powerful impression.
What sets Tangerine apart is its analog production. Recorded entirely on vintage gear, including an Ampex ATR-102 reel-to-reel and a Tascam 388 8-track, the EP captures the warmth and authenticity often missing in digital recordings. This meticulous process gives the music an organic, lived-in quality that complements its raw energy.
Meat in Space’s dedication to his craft doesn’t stop with the music. The EP will be sold at Amoeba Records and promoted with a forthcoming music video, social media campaigns, and airplay on KEXP, a renowned tastemaker for indie music.
For fans of Ty Segall, King Gizzard, and Nirvana, Tangerine offers a compelling blend of nostalgia and fresh creativity. This is not just an EP—it’s a statement, signaling the arrival of a distinctive voice in indie rock. As Meat in Space continues to explore the intersection of past and present, one thing is clear: Shawn Stedman is an artist to watch.
