So Where To Today?

First Place, the latest EP from Flowers for the Dead, kicks off a new chapter for the Washington D.C. trio known for their modern take on ’90s grunge. After leaning into the noise on their 2024 album Magnolia, the EP’s four songs find the group experimenting with a softer, more intentional sound while examining the pursuit and politics of community, friendship, and love. The title recalls a vintage pin —pictured on the cover art-that proclaims “1st prize big shot.” This absurd notion of being a proud egoist captures the sly humor of an EP filled with “sarcastic screw you songs” faintly tinged with hope, all beaming with the shared assurance of a band finding their own identity.