Music: IU Alums and African American Choral Ensemble Unite for Anthem of Community and Unity

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Written from press release

BLOOMINGTON, Ind. — August 4, 2025

In a collaboration that bridges generations, genres, and communities, Bloomington-based band Apollo Selene has teamed up with the Indiana University African American Choral Ensemble (AACE) for a new single titled “People With People.” The song, set to be released August 22, 2025, is a celebration of togetherness and the transformative power of collective creativity.

Recorded inside the historic Mount Gilead Church at Primary Sound Studios, the track features the soaring voices of the AACE under the direction of Dr. Raymond Wise, whose leadership continues to elevate the ensemble’s legacy of musical excellence. The project was produced by IU professor and punk rock icon Paul Mahern, known as the frontman of the seminal Indiana punk band Zero Boys.

Ethan Lieser, a proud IU alumnus and founding member of Apollo Selene, described the collaboration as one of the most meaningful artistic experiences of his life.

Lieser said he first witnessed AACE perform in February 2024 and was deeply moved by their sound and message. He reached out to Dr. Wise with the idea of collaborating, and to his delight, the ensemble agreed. A studio session in the fall of 2024 brought the groups together to record what would become a vibrant and deeply emotional piece.

More than just a single, “People With People” is a testament to Bloomington’s creative spirit and the connections forged between students, artists, educators, and local institutions.

“This moment represents some of the best of what Bloomington and IU stand for,” Lieser said.

The release will be accompanied by behind-the-scenes footage and studio images, documenting the process that brought the project to life. For Apollo Selene, it’s a song rooted in place, people, and purpose—a message they hope will resonate far beyond the borders of their college town.

The single will be available on all streaming platforms August 22.

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