The latest CD is a collaboration from beginning to end. Each track is a duet or feature with another band. As a matter of fact, track one is done with Soap Box Duo who were previously Muse Entertainers of the Month. It’s that track that I felt had the Beatle vibe named Adventure Island. Brother tells me that the writing process is that first the band writes the music, then lyrics to fit. The project prior to Serenaded Through Seaweed, Connected Through Corals had that same collaborative effort. Picking the bands that they work with had to be an interesting process. With Soap Box there is an obvious contrast. Does Brother Octopus look for contrasting bands as a rule? Brother tells me that the band selection was as much a part of the writing process as anything. After having the lyrics and music down, they look for bands that fit the vibe of what they have completed. That has led to recording with bands from around Alberta, the U.S and even the U.K., each injecting their sound into a tune that was written without them in mind. It is a truly interesting concept.
When I finished listening to Brother Octopus’ latest disc, I could see them at home in almost any era. I can see the 60s beatnik, coffee house, sorry Brother. And though I don’t see any 70s disco, I can see the transition to 80’s pop.