AEMMP Returns with Free Compilation and Show

By Sarah Cobarrubias in Arts & Entertainment on Feb 17, 2011 6:20PM

It’s been nearly two years since AEMMP, the Columbia College Chicago record label, celebrated its relaunch with the release of its first sampler, Chompilation. Now in 2011, they’re returning with the follow-up, Chomp, Too, which sees its official release date today. Available as a free download on the label’s Bandcamp page, the compilation features songs by local acts that include students and alumni of Columbia. Unlike many compilations that focus on one genre, Chomp, Too is sort of all over the place, covering punk, psych, garage, hardcore, pop, experimental, and post-rock.

The 14-song collection features songs from a number of local favorites, including “Weapons for War” by A Lull, “Love” by Secret Colours, and “Plain Brains” by Truman & His Trophy. But, as is the label’s mission, the compilation exposed us to some unfamiliar material, such as the jaunty yet gentle pop of “French Song” by Honest Engines. And then there’s An Aesthetic Anesthetic, who contributed an impressive instrumental track notably titled, “I Don’t Want to Sound Like a Dickhole or Nothin’, but God Should Look Like Gandalf.”

AEMMP is celebrating the release with a free show tonight at Stage 2, which is on the second floor of Columbia’s 618 S. Michigan Ave building. Taking the stage will be Chomp, Too contributors Chaperone, Carbon Tigers, Aetiology, and Katz Company. In the meantime, check out AEMMP’s Tumblr for interviews and videos of some of the compilation's bands.

Chomp, Too Launch Party is Today, Thursday, February 17 at Stage 2, 618 S Michigan, 6 p.m., FREE