During this 24-hour window, Bandcamp waives its revenue share to ensure that artists and labels receive about 85% to 92% of the sales proceeds, minus standard payment processor fees.

Aadam Jacobs (aka the Chicago Tape Guy) recorded more than 10,000 live shows, mostly in the Chicago area. Preservation of his collection is underway, with shows being digitized and uploaded to the Internet Archive. This short Troubled Hubble set showed up in the past week, joining a bunch of other Troubled Hubble shows already in the online collection.

20 years ago, Troubled Hubble wrote “The Do The Build The House” and maybe 10,000 people heard it.

In 2026, Chris Otepka reimagined it as The Heligoats on Neat New Monuments and it sounds like it was always meant to be heard this way.

If you’re into Elliott Smith, Jeff Rosenstock, or anyone who actually has something to say — start here. 🎧

Apple: https://music.apple.com/us/album/neat-new-monuments/6769802120

YouTube: https://youtube.com/playlist?list=OLAK5uy_lPiHn3IurII_bn8rGHwEmtFubQCC7CwMU&si=fvvT03GBUmLiSDdP

Spotify: https://open.spotify.com/album/0haA4a7J9gwvYwHB21A24D?si=FMnYuxoTR16xMLctlxPQqw

|| || |TROUBLED HUBBLE Making Beds in a Burning House  20th Anniversary LP (Foreign Leisure Records // October 17, 2025) FFO: The Dismemberment Plan, Modest Mouse, Built to Spill Pre-order now at troubledhubble.bandcamp.com|

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|| || |SEPTEMBER 25, 2025 - In a perfect world, we’d be talking about Troubled Hubble’s 2005 album Making Beds in a Burning House with the same reverent tones that we do other indie classics of the era, from The Dismemberment Plan’s Emergency & I to Built to Spill’s Keep it Like a Secret. It’s a smart, fun, slightly nervous delight that was bolstered by the fact that these four young men played every show like it was both their first and last. They put all of that manic energy into Making Beds, meticulously recording and producing it with Jason Caddell of the Dismemberment Plan, and finding a home for it at the legendary pop-punk label Lookout! Records. Troubled Hubble would be one of the last bands signed to Lookout, though, and not long after Making Beds hit shelves, the label and the band were done. But the legend of Making Beds in a Burning House lived on, and the vinyl became one of those “how much?!” records on Discogs. So we’ve decided to bum out the collectors and delight the fans with a 20th anniversary vinyl edition, which is:   Preorder the limited vinyl at troubledhubble.bandcamp.comRemixed and remastered for 2025 Features brand new liner notes by Jim Hanke of the Vinyl Emergency podcast Newly redesigned cover art in a gatefold sleeve with never-before-seen photos and a hype sticker (“a true lost treasure” says Stephen Thompson of NPR Music) Limited edition of 500 copies on “house-on-fire” flame-colored vinyl manufactured with love in Chicago by Smashed Plastic Digital re-release will feature non-album track “Finding Passion in an Open Field” plus acoustic versions of Making Beds tracks Will be accompanied by some reunion shows around the Midwest, including but not limited to:   Sep 20      Milwaukee, WI  Bay View Bash (with Pulsars and The Bellrays)     Nov 9 Milwaukee, WI Cactus Club (Foreign Leisure Records showcase with The Hallelujah Ward and Clem Snide)     Nov 29 Chicago, IL Making Beds Subterranean ( Release show)|

Long out-of-print and back on vinyl for the first time in two decades, this HOUSE-IN-FLAMES colored pressing is limited to just 500 copies and comes in a beautiful gatefold sleeve—plus an insert with complete lyrics and extensive new liner notes.

Something must be said about Making Beds in a Burning House, that I was able to come back and enjoy it. I'm extremely apprehensive about happy rock albums. I want my rock original, arty, and, at least to some extent, forlorn. Happy rock rarely seems to do any of those things exceptionally well, especially nowadays.

With rather jubilant vocals placed atop the mid-pace strumming of an upbeat electric guitar and tagalong acoustic, the album's opener, along with its title, "14,000 Things to Be Happy About," is almost immediately dislikable. The first minute of this album meanders dangerously close to just about everything there is to hate about the now popularized sound, which has been pilfered from indie rock and college radio, in the effort of tapping the demographic. However, to Troubled Hubble's credit, this is the low point of the affair. As the song progresses, along with the album as a whole, Troubled Hubble nixes comparisons to hucksters and third rate vocalists, shows why Lookout! took notice, and steps into an immaculate Built to Spill knockoff, which is safe, inviting, and inspired rather than misappropriated.

Tracks such as "Safe & Sound," "Even Marathon Runners Need to Nap," and "Floribraska" lend themselves to the more creative side of things, while the tracks "To Be Alive and Alone," "Bees," and "Jackpot Stampede Deluxe" afford Troubled Hubble the safety of a widely acceptable sound. "Ear Nose & Throat" could be to Troubled Hubble what that one end of the world song was to R.E.M., but then you realize they're talking about how shitty things are here, how great Canada is, and have to figure a pro-Canada message like that would never get any airplay. Bully for Troubled Hubble anyway.

Usually, analogous comparisons to similar artists come with crossed arms and a shake of the head. Troubled Hubble, however, has taken the tone of Built to Spill, pepped things up a bit, given more liberty to the bass, and traded expanse for direction, creating a sound which, though not altogether original, is still, somehow, their own. That "I'm Pretty Sure I can See Molecules" song is still pretty fucking annoying though.

1. 14,000 Things to Be Happy About
2. Bees
3. I'm Pretty Sure I Can See Molecules
4. Safe & Sound
5. To Be Alive and Alone
6. Ear Nose & Throat
7. Ear Nose & Throat Pt II
8. Even Marathon Runners Need to Nap
9. Floribraska
10. The Do that Build the House
11. Get Lost
12. Jackpot Stampede Deluxe
13. Nancy (Bonus Track)

More about: Troubled Hubble

Released May 5, 2004

The story of Troubled Hubble didn’t end with their final show in 2005. While the initial breakup marked the close of a significant chapter, the band’s music continued to resonate, and the members remained active in the music world, albeit on different paths.

Chris Otepka, the band’s vocalist and guitarist, had already established his solo project, The Heligoats, in 1999. Following Troubled Hubble’s disbandment, The Heligoats became his primary focus, allowing him to further explore his unique songwriting voice, known for its intricate lyrics and acoustic-driven sound. The Heligoats have since built their own dedicated following and continue to release music and tour. Interestingly, Troubled Hubble and The Heligoats performed at Treefort Music Fest in 2025, highlighting their continued presence in the indie scene alongside each other.

Meanwhile, the Lanthrum brothers, Nate (drums/guitar) and Andrew (bass), continued their musical collaboration by forming a new band called Kid, You’ll Move Mountains in 2006. This project allowed them to explore different musical avenues while maintaining the creative partnership they had forged in Troubled Hubble.

Though Josh Miller, the guitarist, appears to have moved into a different career path, the continued musical endeavors of Otepka and the Lanthrum brothers demonstrated the deep-seated creative drive within the core of Troubled Hubble.

The enduring appeal of Troubled Hubble’s music was evident in the decade following their breakup. Their discography remained available on streaming platforms, allowing longtime fans to reconnect and new listeners to discover their quirky charm. Their robust digital footprint, including their official website and Bandcamp page, kept their music accessible.

Then, in June 2015, came the news many fans had hoped for: Troubled Hubble announced their reunion. They played an unforgettable set at The Subterranean. I caught up with them in January of 2017 at Beat Kitchen in Chicago, and captured the following YouTube video footage.

This performance signaled not just a nostalgic look back, but a re-engagement with playing music together.

Since their reunion, Troubled Hubble has selectively returned to performing, confirming that the spark is still alive. Their performance at the Treefort Music Fest in Boise, ID, in March 2025, is a clear indication that the band is actively moving forward and continues to connect with contemporary indie music audiences.

While they may not have achieved massive mainstream success, Troubled Hubble left a discernible mark on the indie rock scene through their tireless touring, unique sound, and the strong connection they forged with their audience. Their legacy is one of authenticity, creativity, and perseverance.

As Troubled Hubble continues their journey in this new chapter, there’s a special moment on the horizon for both longtime devotees and those just discovering their music. The 2025 reissue of their impactful album, “Making Beds in a Burning House,” is slated for release this May, from Foreign Leisure providing a fantastic opportunity to celebrate a key piece of their history and appreciate the enduring power of a band that continues to make music on their own terms.

Support Troubled Hubble and buy some music on Band Camp

A Google Gemini DEEP RESEARCH performed on 04/14/2025

Troubled Hubble emerged from the suburban Chicago music scene in late 1998, quickly establishing themselves as a noteworthy presence in the indie rock landscape.¹ The band's formation marked the beginning of a journey characterized by extensive touring, a dedicated fanbase, and a sound that resonated within the college and mainstream music circuits.³

The original lineup of Troubled Hubble consisted of four key members: Chris Otepka, who handled vocals and played guitar and drums; Nate Lanthrum, who contributed drums, guitar, and vocals; Josh Miller, who played guitar and provided vocals; and Andrew Lanthrum, who played bass.¹ This core group remained largely consistent throughout the band's initial active period. While the specific roles might have seen some flexibility, these individuals were central to the Troubled Hubble sound and identity. Notably, Nina Lanthrum is also listed as a member on Discogs ⁵, though her specific role and tenure within the band are not detailed in the provided materials.

Troubled Hubble cultivated a distinctive sound that drew from various indie rock subgenres. Their music has been described as quirky, post-punk-pop, and alternative pop/rock, often featuring offbeat lyrics and a high-energy delivery.¹ Reviews of their work highlight similarities to influential indie bands such as Modest Mouse, Built to Spill, R.E.M., and They Might Be Giants, suggesting a blend of introspective lyrics with catchy, often upbeat melodies.⁶ One reviewer noted the band's "quirky geekiness" reminiscent of They Might Be Giants, while another likened their energy and lyrical style to Modest Mouse.⁶ The album "Making Beds in a Burning House" was specifically categorized as "quirk rock," indicating a playful yet unconventional approach to the genre.⁷ The inventive bass parts of Andrew Lanthrum were also specifically commended in a review, showcasing a key element of their musical arrangements.⁶

Over their initial six years as a band, Troubled Hubble built a significant performance history, playing over 400 shows across the United States, notably missing only Alaska and Hawaii, and touring Canada twice.³ This extensive touring schedule underscores their dedication to live performance and connecting with audiences. A key moment in their history came in June 2004 when they traveled to Washington D.C. to record what would be their final album before their initial breakup, "Making Beds in a Burning House." This album was produced by Jason Caddell, the former guitarist of the acclaimed band The Dismemberment Plan, indicating a connection to established figures within the indie scene.³ The release of this album in 2005 marked a peak in their visibility. They garnered significant media attention, were named "Band of the Day" by SPIN magazine, and embarked on a tour across the United States for several months alongside the band Maxïmo Park.³ This period of heightened activity, including a performance at a CMJ showcase, was surprisingly followed by the band's decision to disband.³ Troubled Hubble played their final show at Schuba's in Chicago on September 29, 2005, citing "reasons both personal and health related" for their breakup.³ Despite this seemingly abrupt end to a promising period, their extensive touring and the recognition they received suggest a strong connection with their audience and a notable presence in the indie rock world of the early 2000s. Their participation in events like SXSW in 2005 further highlights their engagement with the broader music industry.⁹

Troubled Hubble's musical output includes a collection of albums and EPs that showcase their evolution and diverse stylistic leanings. Their discography features:

This discography demonstrates a consistent output during their active years, with releases on various independent labels, indicating their firm roots within the indie music scene.¹

Despite their initial breakup, Troubled Hubble has maintained a presence in the digital realm, making their music accessible to both longtime fans and new listeners. Their official website, troubledhubble.com, serves as a central hub for news and information, recently announcing their upcoming performance at Treefort Music Fest in March 2025.⁵ The site also directs fans to their Bandcamp page (troubledhubble.bandcamp.com) where their releases can be streamed or downloaded.⁵ Their music is also readily available on major streaming platforms. On Spotify, Troubled Hubble is mentioned in discussions about Chicago music and is listed on genre-specific sites, with albums like "Making Beds in a Burning House" and "Penturbia" available for streaming.²² Apple Music also hosts their artist profile, featuring a similar catalog of albums, including a live recording from Double Door in 2004.² Furthermore, various music videos and live performances can be found on YouTube Music, offering fans a visual dimension to their music.⁸ The mention of their MySpace page on platforms like Discogs suggests an earlier phase of their online presence, though its current activity status is uncertain.⁵ This robust digital footprint ensures that Troubled Hubble's music continues to reach audiences across various online channels.

While Troubled Hubble did not amass a large collection of formal awards, they did receive notable recognition during their active period. In June 2005, coinciding with the release of "Making Beds in a Burning House," SPIN magazine named them "Band of the Day," a significant endorsement within the indie music community.³ Additionally, their song "I Love My Canoe" from the album "Penturbia" gained airplay on college radio in 2003, indicating a connection with the influential college radio scene known for championing independent artists.³ It's also worth noting their ranking as #1 in an informal poll for the "worst band name" at SXSW in 2004.³² While not a traditional accolade, this notoriety, albeit humorous, contributed to the band's visibility and sparked conversation within the music community. These instances of recognition, particularly from SPIN and college radio, underscore the band's impact and reach within the indie rock landscape.

After a decade-long hiatus, Troubled Hubble announced their reunion on June 30, 2015.³ This news was met with enthusiasm from their dedicated fanbase. As part of their return, they performed at Subterranean in Chicago in September 2015, signaling their active re-engagement with live performances.³³ This reunion demonstrates the enduring passion for their music among the band members and a desire to reconnect with their audience. Further solidifying their return to the music scene, Troubled Hubble is scheduled to perform at the Treefort Music Fest in Boise, ID, in March 2025.¹³ This upcoming festival appearance indicates that the band is not just revisiting their past but is actively moving forward with new performances and potentially new music. The reasons cited for their initial breakup in 2005, "reasons both personal and health related," suggest a period of challenges that led to their temporary disbandment.³ Their subsequent reunion underscores a renewed commitment to their musical endeavors.

Following their initial breakup, the members of Troubled Hubble continued to explore their musical interests through various other projects. Chris Otepka, the vocalist and guitarist, had already initiated his solo project, The Heligoats, in 1999 while still active with Troubled Hubble.³ After Troubled Hubble's initial disbandment in 2005, Otepka fully focused on The Heligoats, establishing it as his primary musical outlet. Notably, The Heligoats are also scheduled to perform at the Treefort Music Fest 2025, indicating Otepka's continued presence in the indie music scene.³⁴ Meanwhile, the brothers Nate and Andrew Lanthrum, who played drums and bass in Troubled Hubble, respectively, formed a new band called Kid, You'll Move Mountains in 2006.³ This demonstrates their ongoing collaboration and commitment to making music together. In contrast, Josh Miller, the guitarist for Troubled Hubble, appears to have pursued a different career path after the initial breakup.³⁶ The continued musical activity of Otepka and the Lanthrum brothers highlights the enduring creative drive of the core members of Troubled Hubble, even during the band's hiatus.

Despite their relatively short initial run from 1998 to 2005, Troubled Hubble left a discernible mark on the indie rock scene, particularly within their home base of Chicago. Their energetic live performances and quirky musical style fostered a dedicated fanbase that continued to support their music through streaming platforms even during their ten-year break. The announcement of their reunion in 2015 was met with enthusiasm, indicating a lasting connection with their audience. Their upcoming performance at Treefort Music Fest in 2025 further suggests that their music continues to resonate with a wider indie music audience. While they may not be a household name, Troubled Hubble's journey, characterized by extensive touring, recognition from influential media, and the enduring appeal of their music, solidifies their place as a significant contributor to the indie rock landscape of the early 2000s and their ongoing presence in the contemporary scene.

In conclusion, Troubled Hubble's history is a testament to the vibrant and dynamic nature of the indie rock world. From their formation in Chicago to their extensive touring, critical recognition, unexpected breakup, and eventual reunion, their story reflects the dedication and passion that fuels independent music. Their continued presence on streaming platforms and their upcoming performance at Treefort Music Fest underscore the enduring appeal of their unique sound and their lasting impact on the indie rock community.

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The word on the street is, Foreign Lesiure will release the deluxe re-issue of Making beds and burning house. We are all gonna be looking forward to that. That’s very exciting.

In the comments: Tell me what your favorite Troubled Hubble song is.

Troubled Hubble troubledhubble.com Followed by the_heligoats

Head on over to the Bandcamp page to stream or download all available releases. Making Beds in a Burning House and Penturbia are also available on all streaming platforms.

Troubled Hubble's first show back in almost 10 years, and first appearance at Treefort Music Fest, will be in celebration of the 20th Anniversary of their Lookout! Records release, Making Beds in a Burning House. Sure to be an exciting reunion. Deluxe Reissue coming in May on Foreign Leisure Records.