The Michigan duo returns with their second full-length on May 23

Crossword Smiles will release their second album Consequences and Detours on May 23, 2025. The record will be available on vinyl, CD, and digital formats via Big Stir Records. The first single, “Falling All Over Myself,” has already been released. A second track, “Counting By Fives,” is expected in the weeks leading up to the full album release.

Title: Consequences and Detours
Artist: Crossword Smiles
Release Date: 2025-05-23
Genres: Alternative Rock, Indie Rock
Label: Big Stir Records
Description: Crossword Smiles announce second album Consequences and Detours out May 23 on Big Stir Records featuring new tracks and guest musicians.

The group is a collaboration between Tom Curless and Chip Saam, two musicians with longstanding ties to Michigan’s independent power pop and guitar pop scenes. Curless previously worked with the project Your Gracious Host and has released solo material. Saam is the bassist for The Hangabouts, a band also linked to Curless’s live ensemble The 46%. Saam is also known for his role as host of Indie Pop Takeout on Neighborhood Weekly Radio.

Crossword Smiles released their debut album Pressed and Ironed in 2022. The new release continues the duo’s songwriting partnership, with both Curless and Saam contributing across all tracks. The instrumentation remains rooted in guitar, bass, and drums, handled by the two members themselves. Additional parts on the new record include violin, harpsichord, synth, accordion, trumpet, and e-bow, provided by guest musicians from The Hangabouts and The Needmores.

Tom Curless has been active as a recording artist since at least the early 2000s. His discography includes albums under his own name and with Your Gracious Host, often released on independent labels and digital platforms. He is originally from the Detroit area and has played guitar, drums, and vocals on various projects.

Chip Saam is based in Michigan and has been part of The Hangabouts, a group associated with melodic indie pop. His activities span performing, writing, and broadcasting. He has also played a role in supporting the regional power pop community via radio and collaborative recordings.

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