Topshelf Records has ended its relationship with Washington, D.C. punk band Ekko Astral, canceling the release of their upcoming album The Beltway Is Burning. The decision follows internal conflicts, including a peace order filed by frontwoman Jael Holzman against former drummer Miri Tyler. The band plans to release the album independently.
Topshelf Records announced on February 23 that it can no longer support Ekko Astral and will not release the band's second album, The Beltway Is Burning, originally scheduled for April 22. In a statement on Instagram, the label wrote: “We can no longer support Ekko Astral and will not be releasing their album the beltway is burning. This includes the end of in-house PR service from the label. Refunds for pre-orders will be issued within 5-10 business days.”
The label confirmed to Pitchfork that the decision stems from recent events, including the fallout between Holzman and Tyler. “Yes, all of these events, and more, have irreversibly impacted our ability to continue working with this band or releasing their music. We have no further comment,” Topshelf stated.
On February 6, Holzman filed a peace order petition in Montgomery County District Court, accusing Tyler of threatening her on social media. Tyler has denied making any threats. In the petition, Holzman wrote: “I do not want to see Miri Tyler go to jail and do not think that is a remedy here. But I need her to stay far, far away from me and leave me alone, so we can both move on and she can find the help she clearly needs.” The order remains in effect until August 13.
Tyler announced her departure from the band on January 28, citing mental health difficulties and a focus on personal projects. She had planned to perform at Liberation Fest II, a D.C. punk festival in April supporting trans liberation and mutual aid. Holzman told Stereogum that Tyler is “absolutely not barred” from the event, emphasizing its community nature.
Holzman addressed the situation in statements to Pitchfork and on Bluesky, saying: “There is a lot of misinformation spreading about this story. We will have more to share in the near future.” She confirmed the album's independent release, calling it “our pride and joy,” and added: “ekko astral is no longer on topshelf. if you’re wondering why, there is a lot more to that story to share in the coming days. and a lot of misinformation surrounding the events leading up to it.”
Ekko Astral, formed in 2021 by Holzman and Liam Hughes, released their debut album Pink Balloons on Topshelf in 2024. The band expanded to include Tyler, bassist Guinevere Tully, and rhythm guitarist Sam Elmore, but Tully and Elmore later departed for personal reasons.
