Fresh Squeezed: Br'er

Formed in 2006, Philly's Br'er is a large collective that build intimate sounds. Initially the creation of Benjamin Schurr and Christian Mirande they released their debut album Of Shemales and Kissaboos on the Australian label Beatismurder in 2007. Using a diverse collection of sounds and instruments, their sound grows and evolves from the tiniest of sounds to soaring anthems. They craft each sound with care, and have grand plans for 2009.

The first part of their plan is to team up with one of the most artistically minded labels in Philly, Edible Onion to release a 7" single from Br'er, featuring alternate recordings of "I'm a Kid Again" and "I'm Sorry Mom." The two tracks orginally appeared on Of Shemales and Kissaboos, and have long been audience favorites in Br'er's live sets. Each album record jacket has a hand painted outer jacket, with vellum windows cut out to reveal a hand painted inner jacket. The painting was done with a mixture of acrylic and watercolor paint on oak tag (outside) and American Masters printmaking paper (inside). All of the text is handwritten. It is a well-crafted and beautiful product.

Edible Onion is also releasing Br'er's brandnew EP, Filled With Guilt and Diamonds this May, and we were able to get a sneak peek. The album is an altered take on folk music, and it is clearly in the right hands. Br'er will be embarking on a two month US tour in March, and will here in Chicago on the 21st. CHeck out their myspace for a full list of their concert dates.

Filled With Guilt and Diamonds
Written Houses/Painted Lady/Katie Did/Sugar Bear (mp3)/Catch a Fallinge Knife