Bitchin Bajas

Bitchin Bajas

Bitchin Bajas are a Chicago-based progressive electronic and ambient group active since 2010. The project begins as a solo side project for Cooper Crain, who also plays guitar in Chicago Krautrock revivalists Cave. It develops into a trio with Rob Frye and Dan Quinlivan; Frye, who is also in Cave, plays flute, saxophone and guitar, while Quinlivan adds synth and guitar textures. The group’s music sits within ambient, drone, electronic and experimental forms, with a psychedelic approach that favours texture and atmosphere over rhythmic drive.

Early releases and development

The project starts with the full-length Tones & Zones in 2010. Over the following years Bitchin Bajas releases a steady stream of material, including split singles, EPs, cassette releases and further albums. Early releases include Water Wrackets in 2011, Vibraquatic in 2012 and Bitchitronics in 2013. These recordings show the project moving from Crain’s solo work into a more developed group sound.

Labels and collaborations

Much of the early catalogue appears on small independent labels or as self-released material. Bitchitronics is released on Drag City, and Transporteur follows in 2015 on Hands in the Dark. In 2015 the group collaborates with fellow Chicago act Natural Information Society on Automaginary. In 2016 it works with Bonny “Prince” Billy on Epic Jammers and Fortunate Little Ditties, and also with filmmaker Olivia Wyatt on Sailing a Sinking Sea, issued as an LP/DVD set.

Later releases

The group’s self-titled double album appears in 2014, running to eight tracks and nearly 80 minutes. It is followed by Bajas Fresh, another double album, in 2017. Across these releases, Bitchin Bajas continue to expand from their initial solo origin into a fuller ensemble built around layered electronic and instrumental texture.