The Penguin Rocks logo
The Penguin Rocks Menu



 

Sunsleeper Releases "Blemishes"

originally published: 06/11/2022


(SALT LAKE CITY, UT) -- Indie rock band Sunsleeper have released their newest track, “Blemishes” via Rude Records. Colored by the warm halo of 90s alt-rock nostalgia, the new track takes memories of an ending relationship and reframes them into lessons of mindfulness.  

“’Blemishes’ is about the slow unraveling of a deeply important friendship, as well as the acceptance of the relationship’s end,” shares vocalist Jeffery Mudgett. “The freedom in letting go of a toxic relationship is underrated. Sometimes there’s no need to mourn the end, but rather we should celebrate leaving that toxicity behind.”

“Blemishes” follows the release of previous tracks “Currents” and “In The Clouds”. Dripping with a 90’s inspired alt-rock feel, both of the tracks envelope moments with the mist of nostalgia and the power of dreaming. The tracks have gained notice from Ones To Watch, Hot Topic, Loudwire, Atwood Magazine, and other notable outlets.

Sunsleeper was halfway through the touring cycle for their debut album when the pandemic halted live music. For the Salt Lake City indie rockers, that pause allowed them to reframe what their journey as musicians and people inspires them to create and say. After forming in 2016 and briskly realizing their Nathan Hussey-produced debut EP Stay the Same, the band entered the studio for their debut album, inking a deal with Rude Records. You Can Miss Something and Not Want it Back dropped in summer 2019, with the band celebrating with runs featuring their collaborators and friends in All Get Out, an Audiotree live session, and most recently, a run with TWIABP and Bent Knee in fall 2021. While the pandemic still rages on in uncertain terms, Sunsleeper found themselves more solidified than ever writing their sophomore LP, with their road-tested lineup collaborating cohesively and with united goals. The band even found time to use the pandemic’s themes to rework Mac Miller’s “Come Back to Earth,” highlighting the track’s balance of self-reflection and hopelessness. (Sunsleeper on this recording is vocalist/guitarist Jeffery Mudgett, guitarist Matt Mascarenas, guitarist Cody Capener, bassist Jacob Lara, and drummer Scott Schilling.)

Photo Credit: Megan Mudgett




Please support the advertisers at New Jersey Stage!
Want info on how to advertise? Click here




 

COLUMNS


Rock On! This Week's Sound Bites... 01/15/2026

"I'm doing fantabulous today. I'm from Berlin, Maryland, it's a very small town, one street light, lots of cops and everyone knows each other," chuckled young singer-songwriter Callum who will be making the trip up from the Terrapin state for two February shows, the first of which is at Flounder Brewing in Hillsborough, NJ and the second on February 22 at John & Peter's in New Hope, PA as part of Mike Montrey's Songwriter Showcase.




This Week in Music: Previews for Concerts from January 13-19, 2026




Makin Waves Song of the Week: "Destiny" by Never the Name




Rock On! This Week's Sound Bites... 01/08/2026





 
Advertise with The Penguin Rocks for $50-$100 per month, click here for info




 

MORE NEWS

(OLD BRIDGE, NJ) -- People Get Ready for the 'Keeping the Blues Alive' 2026 Tour, featuring the BBD Rhythm & Blues Band. They have two shows in January - Sammy D's Bar Wine & Spirits in Old Bridge on Saturday, January 24th and Lizzie Rose Music Room in Tuckerton on Friday, January 30, 2026. Additional shows run throughout February.


An Interview with Zalerno about "Mythic Romance"




The Newton Theatre presents Better Than Ezra on March 26st




Lee Brice: Acoustic with special guest Deltona at State Theatre on January 23rd




bergenPAC to put tickets on sale for Happy Together Tour






 

UPCOMING SHOWS


Light of Day WinterFest 2026 Preview

(ASBURY PARK, NJ) -- It's time for the annual Light of Day shows! A time when Asbury Park comes alive with music throughout the city -- everything from singer-songwriter to rock & blues to cover bands and tribute acts. It's a great time to check out new artists, see your favorites, and experience new venues. In addition to Asbury Park, there are shows at City Winery in NYC, John & Peter's in New Hope, Outpost in the Burbs, and Bob's Birthday Bash in Red Bank.


The Newton Theatre presents Queensrÿche




The Princeton Folk Music Society presents Crys Matthews




Brook Arts Center presents Gold Rush: The Music of Neil Young






Advertise with The Penguin Rocks for $50-$100 per month, click here for info




The Penguin Rocks

© 2026 by Wine Time Media, LLC
PO Box 811, Belmar, NJ 07719
[email protected]

Presented by New Jersey Stage

Images used on this site have been sent to us from publicists, artists, and PR firms. If there is a problem with the rights to any image, please contact us and we will look into the matter.

Follow us on Facebook, Twitter, and our NJ Stage accounts on Instagram, and Threads


News | Features | Radio Shows | Penguin's Hall of Fame | Song of the Week | BlowUpRadio column

Contact Us | About Us | Submit Music | Ad Rates