An interview with Chicago's Sunflower convertibles

by: julian harvey

The Sunflower Convertibles might be from the future. Their debut EP “Sheboygan” is an eclectic mix of mind-melting production, soulful and passionate vocals and storyteller lyrics. The record was spawned from the group’s journey from their native Chicago to the tape’s titular city and aims to make you feel like you were brought along for the adventure. Themes of wanting to unwind and reconnect with your inner child are all over the six-track project. All four members bring something different to the table. This paired with their hip-hop-centered, genre-bending style means that The Convertibles invoke an early Brock Hampton. Chief among their influences are other Chicago artists, including their collaborators like Elijah Free, who provided the album's cover art.

​“Sheboygan” was preceded by a pretty elaborate and ambitious rollout. The “Days before the Sheboygan” campaign consisted of sketches, wheatpaste prints, a music video for the song “Full Moon,” and even a concert that doubled as the project's release party. This undertaking was no small task but has helped to build local buzz in the city. The Sunflower Convertibles recently sat down with me for an interview. We discussed the serendipitous nature of their group's formation, the struggles of getting listeners as underground artists and next steps for the group. That interview is going to be broadcast on my show “Spin Cycle” but the record is out now everywhere.

​