“The Dust-Ups self-titled debut album is outstanding alt-country with hints of honky-tonk and blues rock, fused with catchy hooks and punk rock swagger. I hope you enjoy this album as much as I do!” -New Jersey Stage

“A lively debut that offers both fun and great traditional musicianship.” –Americana UK

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The Dust-Ups blend a down-home country sound with punk rock spirit. While they all call New Jersey home, The Dust-Ups’ origins span from New Orleans to Quebec, allowing their lively, catchy brand of Americana/alt-country to resonate as far from regional. The outfit was assembled in 2022 after lead vocalist/rhythm guitarist Ryan Chatelain, a veteran of the New Orleans and New York solo-acoustic scenes, laid down roots in the Garden State and put out the call for musicians on Facebook and Craigslist. 

Multi-instrumentalist Joe Palmisano answered and expressed a shared fondness of some of Chatelain's biggest influences, including Old 97’s and Uncle Tupelo, and the two then partnered to start what would eventually become known as The Dust-Ups. Shortly after, bassist Stephen Swalsky, formerly of the alt-country bands Coal Palace Kings and Mud, Blood & Beer, and drummer Alek Speck, who toured the world with the indie rock group Run Run Run, completed the lineup. 

So far, the four-piece band has driven their quintessential Americana charm through the PA systems at clubs and festivals throughout New Jersey, New York and Pennsylvania. With Palmisano seamlessly switching from lead guitar to pedal steel to mandolin, crowds can always expect the unexpected. 

The symbiotic songwriting relationship between Chatelain and Palmisano brings a unique dynamic to The Dust-Ups, who released their eponymous debut album in March 2024. Their songs have received radio play in New Jersey, New York, Utah and the Netherlands. The Dust-Ups are endeavoring to continue extending the legacy of alt-country while remaining inspired by country legends and channeling their fervor for the genre into euphonic harmonies and raw, heartfelt lyrics.