Captures Midwest Parties After “Happy Hour” EP by The Party After

On March 5, 2025, Omaha rock trio The Party After released their latest EP, “Happy Hour.” Comprised of Jared William Gottberg, Derek Talburt and Tony Bates, the band is known for their blunt sound and spanning genres and performances, but in this project, they seem to sharpen their storytelling and emotional undertones.

“Happy Hour”, at its essence, describes stagnation; a character trapped in the same bar, same town, night after night, either unable, or unwilling to break out. But The Party After delivers this plainly familiar story with a twist; sarcasm and sincerity fused together, layered with honesty only personal experience can relate to.

The EP was recorded at Topetitud Estudios in Mexico City and was crafted in a spontaneous and unconventional manner. With most of the writing and arranging happening in the heat of the moment, the band captured the energy and emotion of each moment. That approach works for them, and provides the music with an imprisoned edge and unapologetic freedom.

While being influenced by Pink Floyd and Led Zeppelin, as well as Deftones and Steven Wilson, “Happy Hour” is a striking showcase of the band’s bedazzling style. The Party After is just getting warmed up since they have a big summer album on the way and another in 2026.