Karly Hartzman and Wednesday: Southern Gothic Rock's Captivating Journey

In an engaging exploration of the creative landscape of indie rock, Karly Hartzman, the 28-year-old frontwoman of the band Wednesday, reflects on the eclectic inspirations behind her music and the personal experiences that shape her songwriting. With the release of their latest album, *Bleeds*, scheduled for September 19, 2025, Hartzman discusses her artistic evolution, her unique storytelling style, and the influences of her Southern Gothic roots.

Hartzman’s home in Greensboro, North Carolina, serves as a microcosm of her artistic vision. Her living space, filled with dolls, cassette tapes, and books, mirrors the intricate narratives she weaves into her lyrics. Influenced by a blend of Southern rock and shoegaze, Wednesday has garnered acclaim for their distinctive sound characterized by vivid storytelling and emotional depth. In a recent interview, Hartzman stated, "This is what we’ve been working towards this whole time. We know what a Wednesday record sounds like, and then we make it."

The band’s previous album, *Rat Saw God*, was hailed as one of the best alt-rock albums of the year, cementing Wednesday's place in the indie music scene. Hartzman’s lyrics, often infused with dark humor and poignant observations, tackle themes ranging from youthful indiscretions to complex relationships. The upcoming album, *Bleeds*, continues this trend, featuring tracks that discuss love, loss, and the sometimes morbid fabric of life in a narrative style that Hartzman describes as "chasing good stories and telling the truth."

Hartzman’s artistic journey began in college, where she found inspiration in the improvisational style of the band Palberta. Initially hesitant to pursue music formally, she was drawn to the raw, unrefined energy of live performances. This led her to form Wednesday, which eventually included members Xandy Chelmis, Ethan Baechtold, Alan Miller, and former partner MJ Lenderman. Hartzman acknowledges that her breakup with Lenderman in 2024, although amicable, influenced the songwriting process for *Bleeds*. "The songs were written before the breakup, although some of them hint at the deteriorating relationship," she explained.

Musically, the album is rich with narrative detail, addressing topics as varied as accidental arson and surreal funerals, all while maintaining a distinctly Southern Gothic ambiance. Hartzman describes her approach to songwriting as both a reflection of her memories and a collection of societal stories. "If someone has a story where they’re like: ‘Oh my God, this was so embarrassing,’ or: ‘This is kind of a secret,’ my ears prick up," she remarked about her fascination with unique narratives.

As she prepares for the album's release, Hartzman remains grounded in her North Carolina roots, rejecting the notion that artistic success requires relocation to a major cultural hub. "I like the idea of coming in from the edge," she stated, emphasizing her desire to maintain authenticity in her work. Her commitment to her local community and the DIY music scene resonates throughout her creative process, allowing her to craft songs that feel both personal and universally relatable.

In a world increasingly saturated with digital distractions, Hartzman has taken steps to prioritize her mental health and artistic integrity. By stepping back from social media, she focuses on her music and the connections she has with her audience through more personal means. Hartzman also engages with fans via her website, where she shares monthly journal entries and interacts with listeners, fostering a sense of community around her music.

As *Bleeds* approaches its release, Karly Hartzman and Wednesday continue to redefine the boundaries of indie rock, merging poignant storytelling with compelling melodies. Their journey embodies the spirit of Southern Gothic rock, capturing the essence of a place steeped in history and rich with stories, all while paving the way for a promising future in the music industry.