Wes Parker Releases Second Solo EP Fantom

Richmond-based musician Wes Parker has released his second solo EP, fantom, a six-track collection that explores the psyche of a broken character through a blend of rock, alternative indie, and early 2000s punk influences [2, 3]. The project marks a significant step in Parker’s career as he navigates his identity as both a solo songwriter and a viral comedy creator [2, 3].

Key takeaways

• fantom is a six-track EP that incorporates influences from artists including Muse, Radiohead, and Andy Shauf [3].
• Parker, a former member of the band Camp Howard, transitioned to solo work after the group disbanded in 2021 [3].
• The artist has gained a following of 200,000 on TikTok, where he is known for his comedy persona, Skunk [2].
• Parker views both his music and his comedy as therapeutic outlets for processing past experiences, including addiction and tour life [2, 3].

From Band Veteran to Solo Artist

Wes Parker’s musical journey began in the Richmond scene as a member of the band Camp Howard [2, 3]. Following the band's breakup, Parker pivoted toward digital content creation, finding success on TikTok with sketch comedy characters like the "jaded sound guy" and his crust-punk persona, Skunk [3]. Despite his online success, Parker maintained his focus on music, releasing his debut solo EP, Splinter, in 2023 [3]. He describes the first year of his solo career as a difficult but rewarding period of "trailblazing," which included the challenges of touring to small audiences [3].

The new EP, fantom, serves as a conceptual exploration of an angel’s fall from heaven to hell [2]. Musically, the project features a mix of synths, distorted guitar solos, and grunge-inspired bass lines [2]. Tracks such as "neck" address heavy themes like death and life with a light-hearted approach, while the closing track, "code atlas," transitions from a dance-influenced beat into a rock composition [2]. Parker notes that he uses comedy as a form of therapy, similar to his songwriting, and finds that both mediums rely on a shared sense of structure and timing [3].

Why it matters

For Parker, the release of fantom represents a move into his second year as a solo artist, a phase he describes as beginning to see the "fruits of his labor" [3]. The project highlights the tension between his dual roles as a comedian and a musician, a balancing act he continues to navigate as he works to establish his identity in the music industry [3]. By drawing on his past experiences and personal struggles, Parker aims to offer a raw and honest perspective that resonates with listeners, even as he continues to refine his creative process and musical direction [2, 3].