A new name in emerging music: Late Stage Crush. This particular Raleigh duo featuring singer Rebecca Sunnybrook and lyricist Susan Mahlburg is making waves since its formation in 2023. What helps make them distinct is their combination of country noir and contemporary indie influences. The magic starts with Rebecca’s deep, understated vocals; they grab you with astonishing intensity. Then there is Susan’s lyrical ability, incorporating themes of loss, distance and the at times bizarre process of reckoning into every track. Together they take music to its bare bones – something you will hear immediately on their very first EP High Noon Divorce. This particular collection reflects their honesty, merging Americana’s open-heart with hard indie songwriting edges.
Crafting Songs with a Personal Touch
Late Stage Crush are a songwriting duo. Each song is a story by itself, with authentic lyrics and little production enabling the stories to shine through. Susan and Rebecca tend to be more than bandmates; they’re friends. They’re independent creators. Every facet of their music is written, produced and handled personally. Rebecca is a classically trained singer who obviously finds her voice fitting this particular project’s raw edge. However, Susan incorporates experience as a published poet into the mix, concentrating on the text and images that make their songs sing. High Noon Divorce stands out, not just as a collection of songs about breakups, but as narratives that explore shifts and transformations offering lucidity and resilience.
What Comes Next for Late Stage Crush?
With the release of High Noon Divorce laying the foundation, Late Stage Crush is already looking towards the future. The pair are writing and recording their second EP which is anticipated early 2026. This brand new release continues their theme of emotionally charged songwriting and also will have expanded instrumentation like upright bass and pedal steel. Beyond the recording studio, Rebecca and Susan wish to play live. They have small venue shows scheduled for late 2025 all through North Carolina and Tennessee. These performances will enable them to play the easy pleasure of the music in small groups to build their sound and appeal to viewers on an individual level.
Spotlight on Rebecca Sunnybrook and Susan Mahlburg
Behind Late Stage Crush are Rebecca Sunnybrook and Susan Mahlburg. Their collaboration reflects disciplined vocal training coupled with poetic lyricism – music that is both new and familiar. A transformation from classical singing to more rustic, understated Rebecca is remarkable. She conveys emotion with simplicity with each song which reaches out to listeners. Meanwhile, Susan’s lyrical craft speaks to universal themes of human experience in reflections and stories which are as thought provoking as they are relatable. Together they are just doing things their way in the market and producing music which reflects their vision.
Stay Connected with Late Stage Crush
If you’re intrigued by what you’ve read so far, exploring Late Stage Crush’s music is just a click away. You can dive into their sound by streaming their debut EP, High Noon Divorce, on your favorite music platform. For those eager to keep up with their journey and upcoming projects, connecting with them on social media is a great way to stay informed. Follow them on Instagram for updates and insights into their creative process. By supporting these talented artists, you’re helping to celebrate music that values storytelling, authenticity, and genuine emotion. So go ahead, check them out, and experience the unique sound of Late Stage Crush for yourself. You won’t be disappointed!
