Neptune's Core is an alternative indie rock band made of two sets of sisters who are forging their own path and making a big impact on Chicago’s thriving music scene with their captivating and unique sound. Sofie Richter (vocals/guitar), Jackie Cywinski (guitar/vocals), Kaitlin Cywinski (drums), and Hannah Richter (bass) are the members of the bad ass group. Jim DeRogits summed it up best when he said on Sound Opinions, "Their age belies the sophistication of the songwriting and instrumentation ... classic alternative era with delicate fragile quiet moments exploding into loud dynamics." 

These four talented multi-instrumentalists and passionate music fans formed the band to bring their heartfelt lyrics to life through their unique mix of rock, jazz, and classical roots combined with their love of all things punk, indie, and classic rock. They've self-released two albums (Can't Have It All in 2020, Evolving in 2021) and continually captivate the crowds, regularly performing live at venues and music festivals all over the Chicago and Milwaukee area with bands such as Dehd, Bnny, Mamalarky, and Hana Vu. 

Neptune’s Core has a late summer EP on the way, preceded by singles and music videos. The band has taken the time to unlock a new sound, with these songs marking a reflection of their growth as musicians and people. Their signature dynamic and tonal shifts are what keep the listener on edge. Eerie harmonies, melodic bass lines, powerful drumming, shimmery guitars, and an unapologetic sense of self are what give Neptune’s Core their own, truly unique sound. 

Music

Evolving

Neptune's Core

Evolving is our second album.

It contains 11 diverse songs that range from punk to ballads.

Released October 1, 2021

Written & performed by Sofia Richter, Jackie Cywinski, Kaitlin Cywinski, and Hannah Richter Recorded and mixed by Andy Gerber Mastered by Colin Jordan

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Can't Have it All

Neptune's Core

This is our debut album.

It includes 8 original songs that range from indie pop to punk.

Released August 21, 2020

Written & performed by Sofia Richter, Jackie Cywinski, Kaitlin Cywinski, and Hannah Richter

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Reviews

"Their age belies the sophistication of the songwriting and instrumentation... classic alternative era with delicate fragile quiet moments exploding into loud dynamics... I hear some Soccer Mommy and Snail Mail influences but what I don't hear are artists still in their teens" Jim DeRogatis, Sound Opinions reviewing the Evolving album as a Buried Treasure 

“A triumph… best described as a cross-between alt-rock and singer-songwriter tunes with strong harmonies… like a mix of Soccer Mommy, Fiona Apple, The Bangles, and Vivian Girls with smart arrangements and terrific lead vocals… powerful indie rock that transcends their youth… echoes the sound of great women’s rock like Courtney Barnett… such a pleasant surprise.” WCXP CHIRP Radio 107.1 describing Neptune’s Core 

"A sounds somewhere between Indigo De Souza, Frankie Cosmos and Soccer Mommy. The collection of new sound-bending tracks of the indie rock persuasion are a widespread success." Periphery Magazine describing Can't Have it All and Evolving

"Neptune's Core dishes out fun and incredibly catchy songs with a strong range. Elements of pop punk and even alt-country find themselves infused in their sound. Turning Red is pure pop ballad while Drowning takes you down an indie rock road toward a boisterous second half full of pounding drums and blisteringly strong vocals. Every track offers something different and inviting, giving you a ton to appreciate from these four great musicians. Third Coast Review  reviewing Evolving

"If you like Olivia Rodrigo but would like to find an artist in a similar vein whose music goes a little "harder", Neptune's Core might be a band you'd like to keep under your belt. Their sound embodies the chaos of the dreary place between being a teenager and an adult. The loud instruments and wistful vocals lay the base of each song. Their album Evolving shows a natural inclination to mix fuzzy instruments with breezy vocals that tie the album together in a very cohesive way. The shoe gaze influence blended with the alternative references mirror their lyrics perfectly. A band who makes you feel seen and heard and holds your hand through your adolescent years." Janset Yasar founder and editor-in-chief of Tonitruale.com reviewing Evolving 

 “A revolutionary talent that deserves to be heard. An early ‘90s grunge haze is present through the jangled guitar riffs, emphatic drums, and passionate vocal harmonies delivering captivating lyrics that speak to a new generation through their storytelling abilities. Had me remembering the early days of Soccer Mommy and Snail Mail.” A1234 Music reviewing Neptune’s Core’s album Can’t Have it All.

"Jangle-y indie pop that sometimes goes fuzzy and grunge-y... a solid debut album." OhMyRockness NY/LA/Chicago describing Neptune's Core and Can't Have it All

“Classic songcraft and tight harmonies… an absorbing rumination on attraction” Songwriting Magazine UK reviewing the song Turning Red

“ Why not join the bandwagon early and support this fantastic upcoming band! Their two 2021 singles, Turning Red and Shot in the Heart are pristine indie rock jams that should be on everyone’s playlist by now!” Third Coast Review

Previous Gigs

From 2019 and 2023 Neptune’s Core has played live gigs at: 
 

House of Vans - Chicago

Subterranean - Chicago 

Schubas - Chicago

Empty Bottle - Chicago 

Hideout - Chicago

City Winery - Chicago

Double Door - Chicago 

Fitzgerald's - Chicago 

Martyrs' - Chicago 

Montrose Saloon - Chicago 

Uncommon Ground - Chicago

Shuga Records - Chicago 

X-Ray Arcade - Milwaukee 

Cactus Club - Milwaukee 

Postock Music Festival

Long Play Music Festival 

Local Grooves Music festival 

And other festivals, breweries, record stores, and clubs across Chicago

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