Philadelphia-based DIY artist Rob Rapp specializes in lo-fi pop that’s steeped in the tradition of 90s indie rock. Influenced by the likes of Guided by Voices and Stephen Malkmus, Rapp looks to carry that tradition well into the modern area.

2023 has been a busy year for the Philadelphia-based lo-fi pop artist. He has released two albums this year: Wires, Liars and Cryers, which was released earlier this year, and the recently released Meanwhile in Collegeville.

Built around fuzzy power chords, big shout-along worthy hooks and choruses paired with Rapp’s ironically detached delivery, Meanwhile in Collegeville‘s latest single “Dysfunctional Machine” wouldn’t be out of place during an episode of 120 Minutes back in the day. Lyrically and thematically, “Dysfunctional Machines” captures the bitterness, malaise, unease and frustrations of modern day life, delving into the mindset and feelings of hardworking Joes and Janes busting their asses thanklessly through the bullshit and lies of everyday life — with as much of their dignity and sanity intact as possible.

The accompanying video features drone-based footage of an abandoned factory site, followed by stock footage of workers making a variety of things in the factory.