Dan Fishback Releases 'Ill I: Laughing with Lizards' – A Personal and Political EP

Brooklyn's own Dan Fishback, a multi-talented artist – encompassing the roles of playwright, songwriter, and performer – has unveiled a significant project. His new EP, Ill I: Laughing with Lizards, is a candid portrayal of his experiences as a queer Jew struggling with chronic illness against the backdrop of increasing political unrest.

The Heart of 'Ill I: Laughing with Lizards'

Set to be released on February 16, the EP represents the first installment in a conceptual trilogy that navigates Dan's complex reflections on health, identity, and society's tumultuous terrain. The title 'Ill' with a capital 'I' symbolizes not only his personal health challenges but also the wider societal imbalances. The work particularly highlights political dysfunctions, with the eponymous track 'Laughing with Lizards' addressing the emotional turmoil of confronting injustice and the consolation found in collective historical resistance.

A Visual Journey

Fishback extends his creativity into the visual realm with a hand-animated video that he himself directed and illustrated. Edited by Sean Puglisi, the video introduces a dash of humor to the narratives of trauma, defiance, and healing. It depicts a young Jewish leftist who crafts a golem, a mythical figure from Jewish folklore, from mashed potatoes. This golem, shaped in the likeness of her ancestral figure, accompanies her across Brooklyn, setting right various social wrongs, including a powerful scene at a rally in support of Palestine. This particular segment is emblematic of a broader, deep-rooted Jewish dissent against Zionism that continues to gain momentum.

Background and Advocacy

Dan's roots in performance trace back to 2003, embedded in New York City's anti-folk scene. Alongside his band Cheese On Bread, he has produced multiple albums, with their latest effort released in 2018. Fishback, who suffers from myalgic encephalomyelitis – more commonly known as chronic fatigue syndrome – is a vocal proponent of Jewish, queer, and disability justice causes. His artistry balances historical contemplation with contemporary urgency, now informed by the precarious position of those at high risk during an ongoing pandemic.

A Return to Music

The release of Ill I: Laughing with Lizards marks Fishback's return to solo recording after a lengthy hiatus, due in part to the physical demands of music production on his health. Thanks to his producer Matt Katz, this new work adopts a tailored process that accounts for Dan's disability. Despite the slower pace, the collaboration blossomed, leading to a reflective album about enduring dark times while reminding us of our collective strength and historical resilience.

Fans and new listeners alike can explore Dan Fishback's latest work on his official website as well as his active presence on Instagram, YouTube, and Patreon, where he continues to share his art and messages with the world.

music, activism, identity