After a period of creative gestation, the enigmatic group Black Bananas is ready to share a journey that feels as expansive as the universe itself. Led by Jennifer Herrema of Royal Trux, the trio has officially announced their first album in twelve years, titled Bad Bunch, set for release on September 4th via Fire Records.
This isn’t just a collection of songs; it’s the result of deep immersion and unique experimentation. The entire project was handled by Herrema alongside new collaborators Brian McKinley and Kurt Midness, who were deeply involved in producing and mixing every note. They describe the process as navigating periods of disconnected time, allowing the musical elements to expand and combine in unexpected ways.
“Every time we opened the sessions was different and like the universe expanding so did the tracks and the density of the combinations,” Herrema reflects. “We went about constructing over periods of disconnected time—that was the work. We knew it was done when, after shaping it for so long, there was suddenly this completed fully formed record sitting in front of us……it’s totally done when the magic is real.”
The album features a diverse soundscape, beginning with the standout single, “Turkey Burgers,” a jazzy psychedelic creation that showcases the band’s evolving sonic palette. Herrema notes that this track originated from their earlier studio days but reflects how they have adapted and developed their methods for making music in the modern era.
The sound of Bad Bunch is a testament to evolution, blending nostalgic influences with fresh, contemporary textures. The ten tracks on the album offer a rich tapestry of moods, ranging from the groovy “Nutrageous & Jam” and the laid-back “All The Way” to the more abstract explorations of “Dust Of Ages” and “Cold Bussin.”
Other highlights from the release include songs like “Eddie’s Album,” the playful “Tiny Chewbacca,” and the catchy “Good Pass,” all contributing to a cohesive and wonderfully weird experience for listeners. Bad Bunch promises a fully realized, captivating record that captures the magic of their long creative voyage.
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Credit: BrooklynVegan
