BruceBan$hee is one of the most original newcomers to emerge from Maryland in quite some time. This genre-bending musician creates music that truly crosses boundaries, thanks in part to his diverse and eclectic taste in music.
What makes this artist really interesting, though, is his experimental way of working. Known for recording his productions in unusual places like childhood haunts and playgrounds, his sound is distinctive and has a sense of character that is rarely experienced in alternative music.
BruceBan$hee cites the likes of Neon Trees, Deftones, and Nirvana as some of his inspirations, and you can hear this come through on his powerful new single, ‘$trawberry Blues’.
To coincide with the release of the song, we had the opportunity to ask this rising talent some questions to get to know them better…
Your influences range from heavy rock to emo pop. For someone who has never heard your music before, how would you describe the sound that you’re creating right now?
My sound lives somewhere between a mosh pit, nature, and a late-night drive. I make emotional alternative music for people who feel too much or not enough. It’s heavy teenage dream energy with pop memory.
You record your songs in unusual spots like old childhood hangouts; how did being in those types of places help you capture the raw feeling of your new single?
I don’t like recording where it feels recommended – I like recording where it feels pure. If the environment makes me angsty, the emotion usually comes out real.
You describe your sound as ‘controlling the chaos as a one-man band’. How do you balance the heavy energy of influences like Turnstile with the catchy chorus appeal of bands like Neon Trees?
It’s chaos with a melody you can sing back & learn to make friends with your demons. I want the hook to stay in your head, but the feeling to stay trapped, choking in between your sternum.
‘$trawberry Blues’ is a tribute to a late best friend. How has writing your music lately helped you process that loss and come to terms with mortality?
Nostalgia and pain live in the same places for me, and that shows up in the vocals.
What can fans expect from your live performances that they might not get just by listening to the studio recordings?
I try to capture moments/energy, not performances.
You can stream more of BruceBan$hee’s music on Spotify, and make sure you check out his most recent EP, ‘TEENAGEANGST’.
BruceBan$hee | Ones To Watch Playlist