German indietronic duo Bromsen have recently released ‘Brothers in Mind’, via Epictronic, an 11-track dance LP dripping rock at every turn along the way. Consisting of Richard and Karlo Bromsen, the Berlin based artists have previously performed together in indie rock band The Pampelmuse in the mid-2000s, and after a good long while of life’s trials and tribulations both reunited to form Bromsen. The pent up years of creative energy is fully felt on ‘Brothers in Mind’ with exploratory and refreshing synths and guitar riffs and licks throughout. Modern while also reminiscent of the enjoyment oozing out of early 2000s indie, the LP makes for a quality listen.
Debut single ‘Merryman’ inspired Brasilian dance group Lux so much they set a routine to the 3-minute track, with Bromsen sharing the video shot of the athletes as a second music video – be sure to check out the fun official one as well! Retro synths beg you to dance, though likely in no way comparable to the members of Lux, and it’s difficult not to smile as there’s a sense of joyfulness at their craft that seeps its way from Richard and Karlo to you, the listener. Latest single off the LP ‘Someone’ is a clear album highlight. Driving vocals and beat paired with a groovy headbanging guitar solo halfway through will have you praising the effortlessly successful genre medling. A tune to drive right into at a Bromsen gig in the future. ‘No One’s indie rock sensibility and catchy chorus dedicate it to an album highlight position as well. Meanwhile ‘Catch’ is a collaboration with fellow German act, Pixel Meth. The synth-pop band adds an ethereal temerity, bringing the track home with Bromsen. Lyrically based around the “opportunities and risks” of AI, it’s ambiguous enough to lose yourself in, with an unsettling futuristic vibe to encourage nail-biting. Somehow ‘Catch’ manages a soothing atmosphere in addition. Other ‘Brothers in Mind’ highlights include ‘Sweet Lies’ and single ‘Read About It’.
Softer than Justice and heavier than Two Door Cinema Club but in the same vein as both artists, Bromsen have made themselves the indietronic act to keep a watchful eye on.
Sarah Medeiros