# Martin Meyer Launches New Power-Pop Project Soup Activists Former Lumpy Records head transitions from punk to melodic power-pop with new release. - **Source:** [Stereogum](https://www.stereogum.com) - **Published:** 2026-11-05 - **Topic:** [entertainment](https://brifing.si/c/entertainment) - **Original article:** - **On Brifing:** https://brifing.si/s/dd31ebf3-652c-4070-99d5-b09b3d352a8c ## Shift in Musical Direction Martin Meyer, formerly the leader of the lo-fi punk label Lumpy Records and the band Lumpy And The Dumpers, has pivoted toward a new creative endeavor. He is now operating under the moniker Soup Activists. This project marks a distinct departure from his previous aggressive, raw punk roots toward melodic power-pop. ## Upcoming Album Details The new project is set to release a collection of tuneful power-pop tracks titled Where The Rubbish Goes. The album is scheduled to arrive on November 13 through Feel It Records. This release represents the latest evolution in Meyer’s career following his departure from the lumpy and dumping punk scene. ## Analyzing The Castle The track The Castle serves as the latest preview of the upcoming album. Unlike the lead single Johnny, which featured a fired-up blast of jangling guitar, this new song offers a mellower and dreamier soundscape. It highlights the diverse sonic range Meyer is exploring within his new power-pop musical framework. ## Context of Power-Pop Power-pop is a genre characterized by melodic hooks, vocal harmonies, and prominent guitar riffs, often drawing influence from 1960s British invasion bands. By adopting this style, Meyer moves away from the lo-fi aesthetic that defined his earlier work. This genre shift reflects a broader trend of artists evolving their sound over time. ## Label and Distribution The upcoming record will be distributed by Feel It Records, a label known for its specific focus on underground and independent music scenes. This partnership suggests that while the sound has changed, Meyer remains connected to the independent music community. Fans can expect the full project to be available next week. ## Legacy of Lumpy Records Meyer previously gained recognition for his work with Lumpy Records, a label that became synonymous with a specific brand of lo-fi, abrasive punk music. His band, Lumpy And The Dumpers, was a central figure in that scene. Transitioning to Soup Activists shows a deliberate effort to explore new creative territories. ## Sonic Evolution Comparison The contrast between the single Johnny and the track The Castle demonstrates the versatility of the new project. While Johnny emphasized high-energy, jangling guitar work, The Castle focuses on atmospheric, dreamy textures. This contrast provides listeners with a preview of the varied emotional and sonic landscape present on the upcoming album. ## Future Musical Trajectory The launch of Soup Activists signals a new chapter for Martin Meyer as he moves past his punk-centric history. By embracing a more melodic approach, he aligns himself with a different tradition of guitar-based songwriting. The release of Where The Rubbish Goes will be the definitive test of this new artistic direction. ## Sources covering this story - https://stereogum.com/2516634/soup-activists-the-castle/music/ — --- _Summary written by Brifing from the original reporting. Copyright in the original article belongs to its publisher; read the full piece at the link above._