Ekko Astral Dropped by Topshelf Records Amidst Internal Conflict
Ekko Astral, the Washington D.C. punk band, has been dropped by Topshelf Records, leading to the independent release of their upcoming album. The split follows a public dispute between frontwoman Jael Holzman and former drummer Miri Tyler...
Topshelf Records has severed ties with Washington, D.C. punk band Ekko Astral, halting the release of their anticipated second album, The Beltway Is Burning. The label cited irreconcilable issues as the cause for their decision. "We can no longer support Ekko Astral and will not be releasing their album the beltway is burning," Topshelf announced on Instagram. "This includes the end of in-house PR service from the label. Refunds for pre-orders will be issued within 5-10 business days."
When questioned about the connection between Topshelf's choice and the recent conflict between Ekko Astral frontwoman Jael Holzman and former drummer Miri Tyler, the label confirmed to Pitchfork that these events, among others, had irreversibly damaged their ability to collaborate with the band.
In a statement to Pitchfork, Holzman acknowledged the "misinformation spreading" and assured that The Beltway Is Burning would be released independently, referring to it as "our pride and joy."
Holzman also confirmed the independent release of The Beltway Is Burning on X:
The Beltway is Burning will still be released independently. It’s our pride and joy. More to come soon. — jae ✨ (@jaeporeon) May 15, 2012
The announcement follows a Washington City Paper article detailing the discord between Holzman and Tyler. Holzman filed a peace order petition in Montgomery County District Court on February 6, alleging threats from Tyler via social media. Tyler has denied these allegations, according to the report.
According to the Washington City Paper, Holzman stated in her petition: "I do not want to see Miri Tyler go to jail and do not think that is a remedy here, but I need her to stay far, far away from me and leave me alone, so we can both move on and she can find the help she clearly needs." The peace order is active until August 13.
Tyler announced her departure from Ekko Astral on January 28, initially planning a final performance at this year’s Liberation Fest II, a D.C. punk festival supporting trans liberation and mutual aid in April. Holzman clarified to Stereogum that Tyler is welcome at the festival, emphasizing its inclusive nature.
Ekko Astral's debut full-length, Pink Balloons, was released on Topshelf in 2024. Best friends Holzman and Liam Hughes founded the band in 2021, later joined by drummer Miri Tyler and bassist Guinevere Tully. Shortly after Pink Balloons' release, Tully left Ekko Astral, citing personal well-being and focusing on her solo project, Rosslyn Station.
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