Fresh out of Massachussetts, check out Brothers Born–an indie-rock duo formed by Joel Stroetzel (Killswitch Engage) and Michael Wyzik (Red Door Exchange)–as they prepare to release their debut album, Knife Wounds. The newly formed duo formed after becoming friends and hanging out at the legendary Brass Cat pub near their hometown of Easthampton, MA. The two soon realized an affinity for similar musical influences: the dark, folky sounds of Tom Waits and Nick Cave, as well as anthemic rock from artists like Longwave, The Church and Blue Nile.
The duo began writing and recording songs in Stroetzel’s studio and emerged with almost two albums’ worth of ideas. Picking their name from a song written by Wyzik’s bandmate Jerry Brookman in Storm The Ohio, they created Brothers Born and began recording in 2012.
Brothers Born is a big departure from the metal of Stroetzel’s Killswitch Engage and the indie-Americana of Wyzik’s bands, occupying a musical middle ground of sorts. Wyzik and Stroetzel play nearly every note on Knife Wounds, with the exception of some background vocals on two tracks. Stream “Parachutes” below!
Knife Wounds is an exercise in musicianship as Brothers Born collectively showcase their years of skillful talent, incorporating what they’ve learned into a melting pot of dark, soulful indie rock. Songs like “Knife Wounds” and “Parachute” resonate a cathartic, honest listening experience for fans.
The band will be performing an album release show at The Iron Horse in Northampton, MA on February 27th and will announce additional dates soon. Follow Brothers Born on Facebook for more information.
