Bad Reception quietly parts ways with major record label

Bad Reception and Studio B, a California major recording label, have ended their relationship, closing a difficult chapter for the band following months of inactivity and uncertainty surrounding its future. The split was confirmed this week by representatives for both parties. Neither the band nor the label disclosed the financial or contractual terms of the separation. In a brief statement, Studio B said the decision had been reached mutually and wished the members of Bad Reception well. The label did not comment on whether the band is currently seeking another recording agreement. Bad Reception offered little more. “We’re not making announcements about what comes next,” the band said in a statement provided to the Arc Fault Tribune. “Right now, this is simply the end of our relationship with Studio B.” The separation follows one of the most turbulent periods in the band’s history. Bassist Jace Holloway stepped away from performing after an accidental prescription drug overdose in December. Trent Harlow of The Ivory Divide was subsequently announced as a temporary replacement, but appeared with Bad Reception only once, during the band’s January 12 performance. That show ended with vocalist Riley Carter leaving the stage during the band’s final song. Harlow was removed from the touring lineup afterward following a backstage incident. Carter was reported missing the following day and was located on January 15. At the time, the band said she was receiving medical care. Bad Reception canceled all remaining appearances shortly afterward and has not performed publicly since. There has been no formal announcement that the band has broken up. Guitarist and bandleader Evan Parker has repeatedly declined to characterize the group’s inactivity as permanent, though neither he nor the other members have offered a timetable for rehearsals, recording or live appearances. Holloway also remains away from the band publicly. Studio B’s involvement with Bad Reception coincided with the group’s rapid transition from an independent regional act into a national touring band. That expansion brought larger venues, longer tours and significantly greater expectations around the group’s recording and promotional schedule. By the end of 2017, however, signs of strain were increasingly difficult to ignore. The band’s final months under the label were marked by Holloway’s absence, an attempted touring substitution, canceled appearances and Carter’s withdrawal from public view. Neither side has publicly blamed the other for the breakdown. People close to the band have also cautioned against treating the end of the Studio B agreement as evidence that Bad Reception is preparing an immediate return. At present, there are no announced shows, recording sessions or release plans. For now, the most significant part of the announcement may simply be what it closes. Whatever Bad Reception eventually becomes after 2018, it will not be under Studio B.