Brother Octopus

Way back in August of last year, we at Drunken Mermaid became sober enough to realize there was something else interesting lurking in the depths, something lurking in that OTHER pond on the left coast of North America, where Drunken Mermaid gets far too infrequently, given our penchant for washing up on Cape Ann, or heading up the Thames for a pint or twelve. That “something else” has since emerged from the Pacific Ocean and is taking over Edmonton, much in the same way as Godzilla owns Tokyo, albeit with electronic riffs and plush octopods rather than pyrotechnics. We give you 2013 Edmonton Music Award Nominee BROTHER OCTOPUS!

drunkenmermaid.com: Where did the concept for Brother Octopus emerge from (other than the deep)?

Brother Octopus: Under the depths of the Pacific Ocean, it can become quite dark and lonely at times. Luckily for me, a “human” from above decided to drop a guitar into the ocean which had sank down to where I resided. I picked up the guitar and played it to my hearts delight, eventually I learned how to play the drums and keyboard. The name Brother Octopus began to take it’s place through the voices of my friends. Lady Friend had loved my name so much that we decided to stick with it as our band-name.

drunkenmermaid.com: Tell us about yourselves – who are Brother Octopus and Lady Friend in the real world (whatever that is)?

Brother Octopus: The real world is boring. I’m half man, half octopus currently living in the city of Edmonton, Alberta. Canada. The only real thing here is the snow and it gets cold!

Lady Friend: I would prefer not to state my real name since I’m a wanted woman for stealing a chocolate bar in my early ages. If it wasn’t for Brother Octopus, I’d still be serving time in jail for life! I owe him the world but all I can offer him is my vocal and tambourine skills which I put to good use on Tentacle Trauma.

drunkenmermaid.com: You recently released your first full length album, the 7-track Tentacle Trauma. What went into its creation?

Brother Octopus: It’s actually a 6-track EP since the 7th track is a hidden bonus track (thanks a lot Drunken Mermaid!). We incorporated plenty of silliness into this album including songs about Jurassic Park, Animals and even Aliens. We like to write songs out of the ordinary but with serious intentions. It’s meant to make you laugh and enjoy the overall track at the same time so I think Tentacle Trauma nailed the tail on the donkey.

drunkenmermaid.com: How does it differ from your debut EP, Yukilo?

Brother Octopus: Well, Yukilo was the first album we’ve ever released and so it will always be dear to my heart. Since it only had 3 full tracks on the album, I think that Yukilo was considered more of a sampler album - a taste of what’s to come and Tentacle Trauma is the icing on the cake. However, the cherry on the top is yet to come.

drunkenmermaid.com: What are your favorite tracks to date?

Brother Octopus: Underwater Mysteries from Yukilo
Lady Friend: Recreational Zoo from Tentacle Trauma

drunkenmermaid.com: Who are your influences? What do you take from them? What do you add?

Brother Octopus: For me, I’d have to say The XX and King Cobb Steely are my main influences for Brother Octopus. I love the elements that The XX brings into their sound and we have the boy/girl vocals in common with them. King Cobb Steely just has that cool electronic vibe to his tracks and so we incorporated that to our music and added some playful lyrics.

Lady Friend: Daft Punk, definitely. I’ve always been a fan of the electronic sounds of Daft Punk and I’m happy to be in a band that can bring in some of that awesome sound. Chemical Brothers is also a favourite of mine.

drunkenmermaid.com: Good stuff. What song do you wish you’d written? How would it sound as performed by Brother Octopus?

Brother Octopus: Lately, I’ve been digging that Tegan & Sara song called Closer but I’m sure if Brother Octopus wrote it, it would become to be a song about Robots for some reason. I like Robots.

drunkenmermaid.com: What does the future hold – is there a particular direction you’d like to take your unique brand of music?

Brother Octopus: We are already working on a full-length album which will be entitled Sea Of Champions and is due for release in late 2013. I’d like to get our music into a comedy film or commercial. It seems to be the most prominent way of receiving exposure. However, with so many artists to choose from, I’m sure we’re just a drop in the ocean (see what I did there?).

drunkenmermaid.com: Tell us about your live gigs. What is it like to see Brother Octopus in the flesh?

Lady Friend: Brother Octopus insists on always bringing a plush toy of an Octopus to EVERY show and sometimes throws toy tentacles around on stage. It’s really a sight to see. I’m usually the one in the background trying to avoid the soaring tentacles, I’d like to keep my eyes intact.
Brother Octopus: I like to have fun on stage! I we - Drunken Mermaid

Tentacle Trauma’s sound is not easy to pin down. The second offering from Edmonton duo Brother Octopus is a thoroughly entertaining eclectic melange of genres – think Captain Beefheart psychedelic arrangements with subtle disco beats and new wave/80s college pop sensibilities constructed on a blues foundation. And yes, I said subtle disco. The bass beat is there, but softer and underneath the melody line, not out in front. I was reminded of The Creatures at times. Though the somber final track, “The Electric Chair,” would not be out of place alongside offerings by The Church or Go-Betweens. The solid playing shows a confidence with nothing blistering or in your face. It’s understated and solid, yet complex enough to provide something new to discover with every listen. The first track is aptly titled “Introduction”; it’s sing-rapped over an electronic chugging guitar riff and the lyrics more or less introduce you to the personalities behind the album, namely Brother Octopus and cohort Ladyfriend. Every song has its own feel and style but also compliments the other tracks. Whether the topic is serious or (mostly) not, the lyrics are simple and clever and let the cat out of the bag: these serious musicians don’t take themselves too seriously. Take for instance, “Recreational Zoo” – the lyrics read like a Noah’s Ark headcount, with each couplet featuring a different and somewhat neurotic critter. Tentacle Trauma, while not a classic album in the classic sense, is indeed a good-natured treasure with a quirky Canadian appeal. - Stylus Magazine

Tentacle Trauma’s sound is not easy to pin down. The second offering from Edmonton duo Brother Octopus is a thoroughly entertaining eclectic melange of genres – think Captain Beefheart psychedelic arrangements with subtle disco beats and new wave/80s college pop sensibilities constructed on a blues foundation. And yes, I said subtle disco. The bass beat is there, but softer and underneath the melody line, not out in front. I was reminded of The Creatures at times. Though the somber final track, “The Electric Chair,” would not be out of place alongside offerings by The Church or Go-Betweens. The solid playing shows a confidence with nothing blistering or in your face. It’s understated and solid, yet complex enough to provide something new to discover with every listen. The first track is aptly titled “Introduction”; it’s sing-rapped over an electronic chugging guitar riff and the lyrics more or less introduce you to the personalities behind the album, namely Brother Octopus and cohort Ladyfriend. Every song has its own feel and style but also compliments the other tracks. Whether the topic is serious or (mostly) not, the lyrics are simple and clever and let the cat out of the bag: these serious musicians don’t take themselves too seriously. Take for instance, “Recreational Zoo” – the lyrics read like a Noah’s Ark headcount, with each couplet featuring a different and somewhat neurotic critter. Tentacle Trauma, while not a classic album in the classic sense, is indeed a good-natured treasure with a quirky Canadian appeal. - Stylus Magazine

“Out of this world” and “fantastic” are two ways I and probably anyone would define the sound of this record. Moreover, the lyrics are just incredibly funny and somewhat unique.

Tentacle Trauma by Brother Octopus is an album that seems to come from the jungle, if you know what I mean. Nothing seems to make sense, but it does. As I said, the lyrics are great as far as comedy is concerned and the sound is really catchy and entertaining. It has that Depeche Mode vibe, with some exceptions.

As the title indicates, “Introduction” is a perfect introduction to what’s about to come. There are some what sounds like “ohh” or “choir” effects with some surreal spacial elements mixed with a sound, especially on the verses, that might remind some of you of Jamiroaqui’s “Deeper Underground” intro.

“Recreational Zoo” practically is a list of various animals, but with a touch of humor. The sound once again is very catchy and entertaining, and it has that Depeche Mode’s vibe in it. The same thing pretty much goes for “Alien Invasion,” but of course the lyrics and music are different.

“Boogie Boogie” has a disco style. It will surely get you dancing pretty much right away.

“Jurassic Park” is simply hilarious. Again, something that apparently will continue until the end, the sound is very addictive and lyrics like “What are you smoking? / Now you must be drinking / I think someone’s must be watching a little too much Jurassic Park” will get us laughing out loud and rolling on the floor.

Finally, “The Electric Chair” completely changes everything. That sound that we’ve been talking about and that in the last paragraph I mentioned that perhaps will define the record’s sound, well, it changes here… this time we have a type of soft rock / alternative song and even the humor disappears pretty much in its entirely.

In conclusion, the album is really awesome. There has always been music that has simply been made to have fun, where the lyrics do not really seem to have a deep meaning or anything. The difference between this type of music made by musicians before and now, is that the ones back in the past, like this band, at least have some kind of cleverness, instead of repeating the same thing over and over again like the songs today. Probably one of the funniest and entertaining albums I’ve ever heard for quite a while. There is still hope, people… there is still hope. - Vents Magazine

Tentacle Trauma by Brother Octopus plays like a 2000s version of the albums They Might Be Giants made in the 1980s. They’re quirky and their songs are filled with lyrics about dinosaurs, aliens, Dr. Seuss and Vanilla Ice. Like TMBG, Brother Octopus excels in a playful glee that makes it hard not to smile as you listen along.

Musically, the duo (Brother Octopus and his female band-mate aptly named Lady Friend) offer a wide variety of sounds on Tentacle Trauma. “Recreational Zoo” is an electronic tinged opener with atmospheric synthesizers that create the song’s main hook. Its main melody sounds like it could be the score for the famed 1980s Nintendo Game Mega Man 2. “Boogie Boogie” combines the electronic elements with a more organic approach with a loud acoustic guitar that comes to the forefront during the chorus. When Lady Friend and Brother Octopus sing “hey got to boogie boogie” they sound distant and bored, which makes the song all the more hilarious. Singing a chorus with the words “boogie boogie” and making it sound serious is quite an achievement. The song also finds Brother Octopus rapping a few lines as well.

The only problem with Tentacle Trauma is that it is not a full-length. Still, it’s refreshing to hear a group that doesn’t take itself too seriously while also creating music that is engaging and inspiring. - Infectious Magazine

We have a lot to thank Canada for: maple syrup, Arcade Fire and Scott Pilgrim being just a few of the nation’s finest exports. Now you can add another name to that list, that of the downright ridiculous boy-girl combo who go by the name of Brother Octopus. The eponymous vocalist/rapper Brother Octopus is joined by his lady friend, known only as Lady Friend, and in Tentacle Trauma, they have crafted a set of knowingly silly, yet unmistakably well-produced tracks about aliens, dinosaurs and an ‘alcoholic platypus’.

When calling yourself Brother Octopus, it’s probably a good idea to introduce yourself so that people have some idea of what the fuck you are talking about. So how about an opening track called ‘Introduction?‘ However ready you think you are, you are not ready enough. Introduction lulls you into a false sense of security with a slow build-up of overlapping synths and electric guitar gently lapping at your face, before you reach the 1-minute mark, and all hell breaks loose. The guitars turn nasty, the drums crash, and then Brother Octopus’s vocals enter the frame, as he introduces himself as a half-man, half-octopus hybrid with ‘tentacles that can reach out and grab your stuff’. It’s a fitting intro to an EP that is equal parts hilarious and deranged, and to top it all off, the song ends with Brother Octopus laughing, as if he can sense your confusion through the headphones.

‘Recreational Zoo‘ is a nonsensical day trip to the animal park, that throws creatures together whose names happen to rhyme, over a bass-heavy stomp and a CD of jungle sound effects that just has to be heard to be believed. It shouldn’t work, but it does, and Boogie Boogie further demonstrates just how good Brother Octopus are at getting your feet moving. Sounding like the B-52’s had they arrived in the early 21st century, it satirises every song that you hear in a nightclub while referencing Vanilla Ice. The duo show off their semi-serious side, at least musically, on ‘Alien Invasion‘, which combines bleeping electronic noises with a driving bassline, while the partnership of Brother Octopus and Lady Friend suddenly makes sense, their unique vocals complementing each other perfectly.

After returning to their comedic personas for ‘Jurassic Park‘, a tale of a man who has watched so many dinosaur films that he is scared he will meet one in the back alleys of Edmonton, Octopus and Friend decide to get meta for the surprisingly dark ‘The Electric Chair‘. Featuring lyrics such as ‘they might call us silly, they might say we’re nuts, but we know what we’re doing’ and ‘we can be funny, but we can be serious like this’, it’s a knowing nod that tells us that Octopus Brother don’t take themselves seriously, and neither should we. Finally, the album comes to a climax with the Bonus Track that isn’t actually a bonus track, but what it is, is bloody marvellous. Taking on the now-familiar guise of the gangsta rap parody track in the style of The Lonely Island’s Lazy Sunday, it’s an anti-drug message that hits hard and features the legendary line ‘breaking drugs like muffins’.

Tentacle Trauma then is not as traumatic an experience as you might think, and if the idea of a silly album with outdated references and nonsensical lyrics puts you off, then don’t let it. I haven’t had this much fun listening to an album for a long time, and if you fancy a break from the super-serious musicians out there, just relax and let Brother Octopus’ tentacles give you a big old friendly squeeze. - 7BitArcade

The title to the Edmonton duo Brother Octopus’ debut EP, Yukilo, comes from the two band members’ pets: Yuki the dog and Kilo the cat. Yukilo has two main themes throughout the album: their pets and the sea. The album begins with “Yuki,” which starts with slow and calming guitar riffs, then turns into a harmony between the female and male singer, with corny lyrics about the pet, like how Yuki should stop licking his paw. “Yuki” is just a 43 second glimpse of what Brother Octopus has to offer, though. Yukilo turns to “Underwater Mysteries,” with the music reminding me greatly of The XX – harmonies between a female and male singer with simplistic, yet relaxing, chord progressions and drum beats. This is just fine for a relaxing, late night drive down Portage Avenue. But, the lyrics are difficult to take seriously. One of the more ridiculous lines in the song being, “Titanic was a tragedy/ but now it’s part of history/ Just like the Little Mermaid 3/ That went straight to DVD/ An epic fail for Walt Disney.” The next two songs, “Old Computer” and “Amusement Park” are personal favourites. There’s something about the harmony in “Old Computer” that sends a slight chill up your spine, with lyrics that, although silly, are a common occurrence for everyone: a computer breaking down. “Amusement Park” adds some variety to the album, with more focus on distorted synth, and bass coming out from the background and taking a lead part in the song. Brother Octopus is definitely an interesting duo that I would definitely suggest listening to. But be sure to give them more than one chance, because getting past the silly lyrics may take some time. (Independent, brothersoctopus.ca)

- Shanell Dupras - Stylus Magazine

Deep in the darkness of the sea lived Brother Octopus. He spent his time studying ancient history as well as learning to become a multi-instrumentalist. After all, a lot can be accomplished with 8 “arms”.

Mastering guitar, piano, accordion, and various other instruments and noise-making machines, it wasn’t long before Brother Octopus was pulling in a crowd of electric eels, crusty crabs, darling dolphins, and even a crew of misfit sharks.

As the crowds consistently grew with each gathering, Brother Octopus realized he was bigger than the ocean. It was time for more. It was time to go to the other side.

Like a scene from the Little Mermaid, he said his good-byes and made his pilgrimage to the surface. As if fate was in motion, the dry world welcomed him with a perfectly played tambourine. “A rhythm section?”, he thought to himself.

After knocking out a guard and sneaking into a highly secured building, Brother Octopus found a tambourine-playing-damsel-in-distress. He offered to help her escape, she said yes, and the rest is history.

Brother Octopus and Lady Friend are now running free inducing Tentacle Trauma every where they go.

Their headquarters are based in Edmonton, Canada and together this duo delivers a unique blend of lyricism, indie rock, and experimentation that could only have been concocted in the depths of the sea.

Imagine Flight of the Conchords being taken hostage by sea creatures and thrown into a holding facility to create a new form of music using elements of Weezer, Jimmy Eats World, and The White Stripes. They are then forced to consume the brains of Vanilla Ice for some stone cold hip hop flavor only a man with 8 arms could conceive.

Brother Octopus is all of this and then some. Freely experimenting with noise, electronic sounds, and synthesizers; this blend of indie rock stands out from the rest.

Tentacle Trauma is an epic journey of exploration and discovery as well as a humorous adventure through very entertaining lyrics. Also note that Brother Octopus is a dope emcee weaving fresh flows into this unique experience.

No matter how silly the lyrics can seem at times, this album is a serious contribution to the independent music community. These 7 tracks are fresh, they groove, they make you move, and they will make you smile.

You will feel as if you are making your own journey from the depths of the ocean up to the simmering sun above the surface of the water.

Tentacle Trauma by Brother Octopus is a must have for your collection but you will not be able to grab your copy until November 27th. It’s ok, don’t cry…

My favorite tracks are Boogie Boogie, Alien Invasion, the Intro, and the Bonus Track. I can already tell this music is going to be in my head for a while.

I can also tell you this will be on repeat. The production value is on-point and is a piece of work producers and engineers will appreciate.

- Middle Tennessee Music

Deep in the darkness of the sea lived Brother Octopus. He spent his time studying ancient history as well as learning to become a multi-instrumentalist. After all, a lot can be accomplished with 8 “arms”.

Mastering guitar, piano, accordion, and various other instruments and noise-making machines, it wasn’t long before Brother Octopus was pulling in a crowd of electric eels, crusty crabs, darling dolphins, and even a crew of misfit sharks.

As the crowds consistently grew with each gathering, Brother Octopus realized he was bigger than the ocean. It was time for more. It was time to go to the other side.

Like a scene from the Little Mermaid, he said his good-byes and made his pilgrimage to the surface. As if fate was in motion, the dry world welcomed him with a perfectly played tambourine. “A rhythm section?”, he thought to himself.

After knocking out a guard and sneaking into a highly secured building, Brother Octopus found a tambourine-playing-damsel-in-distress. He offered to help her escape, she said yes, and the rest is history.

Brother Octopus and Lady Friend are now running free inducing Tentacle Trauma every where they go.

Their headquarters are based in Edmonton, Canada and together this duo delivers a unique blend of lyricism, indie rock, and experimentation that could only have been concocted in the depths of the sea.

Imagine Flight of the Conchords being taken hostage by sea creatures and thrown into a holding facility to create a new form of music using elements of Weezer, Jimmy Eats World, and The White Stripes. They are then forced to consume the brains of Vanilla Ice for some stone cold hip hop flavor only a man with 8 arms could conceive.

Brother Octopus is all of this and then some. Freely experimenting with noise, electronic sounds, and synthesizers; this blend of indie rock stands out from the rest.

Tentacle Trauma is an epic journey of exploration and discovery as well as a humorous adventure through very entertaining lyrics. Also note that Brother Octopus is a dope emcee weaving fresh flows into this unique experience.

No matter how silly the lyrics can seem at times, this album is a serious contribution to the independent music community. These 7 tracks are fresh, they groove, they make you move, and they will make you smile.

You will feel as if you are making your own journey from the depths of the ocean up to the simmering sun above the surface of the water.

Tentacle Trauma by Brother Octopus is a must have for your collection but you will not be able to grab your copy until November 27th. It’s ok, don’t cry…

My favorite tracks are Boogie Boogie, Alien Invasion, the Intro, and the Bonus Track. I can already tell this music is going to be in my head for a while.

I can also tell you this will be on repeat. The production value is on-point and is a piece of work producers and engineers will appreciate.

- Middle Tennessee Music

Sea creatures, aliens, and dinosaurs are just some of the things that make up the world of Tentacle Trauma, the newest release from the Canadian duo Brother Octopus. Consisting of Brother Octopus and Lady Friend, these two have created a sound so unique that you fall immediately in love with it. The music is so refreshing and original the only problem I can see is that it is an EP. No real worries though, because you just play it again. From the aquatic to the celestial, Tentacle Trauma is an experience not to be missed.

“Introduction” seduces the listener with the calming sounds of the deep ocean and lures one into a state of calm before the heavier beats start and Brother Octopus introduces himself with style, displaying his creative and humorous musical talents. “Recreational Zoo” has such a refreshing sound and Lady Friend’s voice is hypnotically soothing. These two complement each other incredibly well. The music creates an atmosphere that is both awe inspiring and a bit frightening. This is the trip to the zoo that you never got to go on as a child. “Boogie Boogie” is pretty sweet song for dancing, which is appropriate given the title. I wonder if they are thinking of creating their own dance for it. I bet it would be as surreal as the music.

“Alien Invasion” is an absolutely delightful song that is magical in its presentation. They do a great job of incorporating familiar alien sounds into the music. “Jurassic Park” is the kind of song that will bring a smile to your face. It is hilarious and might make a wave of nostalgia wash over you. It is an absurd song that is hard not to like, which would be a good description of this EP in general. “The Electric Chair” shows a slower and more serious side to Brother Octopus, while still retaining their trademark tongue-in-cheek humor. Capping it all off is the hilarious “Bonus Track.” This is the best bonus track that you will ever hear.

Tentacle Trauma by Brother Octopus is most pleasant and fun album that I have listened to all year. Here is a group that truly loves what they do and it comes through in their work every inch of the way. They are clearly enjoying themselves and that energy and enthusiasm transfers to the listener like lightning to a tower. Tentacle Trauma will brighten up your day. More please.
- Muzik Reviews

Sea creatures, aliens, and dinosaurs are just some of the things that make up the world of Tentacle Trauma, the newest release from the Canadian duo Brother Octopus. Consisting of Brother Octopus and Lady Friend, these two have created a sound so unique that you fall immediately in love with it. The music is so refreshing and original the only problem I can see is that it is an EP. No real worries though, because you just play it again. From the aquatic to the celestial, Tentacle Trauma is an experience not to be missed.

“Introduction” seduces the listener with the calming sounds of the deep ocean and lures one into a state of calm before the heavier beats start and Brother Octopus introduces himself with style, displaying his creative and humorous musical talents. “Recreational Zoo” has such a refreshing sound and Lady Friend’s voice is hypnotically soothing. These two complement each other incredibly well. The music creates an atmosphere that is both awe inspiring and a bit frightening. This is the trip to the zoo that you never got to go on as a child. “Boogie Boogie” is pretty sweet song for dancing, which is appropriate given the title. I wonder if they are thinking of creating their own dance for it. I bet it would be as surreal as the music.

“Alien Invasion” is an absolutely delightful song that is magical in its presentation. They do a great job of incorporating familiar alien sounds into the music. “Jurassic Park” is the kind of song that will bring a smile to your face. It is hilarious and might make a wave of nostalgia wash over you. It is an absurd song that is hard not to like, which would be a good description of this EP in general. “The Electric Chair” shows a slower and more serious side to Brother Octopus, while still retaining their trademark tongue-in-cheek humor. Capping it all off is the hilarious “Bonus Track.” This is the best bonus track that you will ever hear.

Tentacle Trauma by Brother Octopus is most pleasant and fun album that I have listened to all year. Here is a group that truly loves what they do and it comes through in their work every inch of the way. They are clearly enjoying themselves and that energy and enthusiasm transfers to the listener like lightning to a tower. Tentacle Trauma will brighten up your day. More please.
- Muzik Reviews

When Brother Octopus gets into character, he doesn’t let go. As he leaves the ocean floor, he reaches out to a lost tambourine master, Lady Friend, his band mate.

Brother Octopus and Lady Friend join forces to deliver Tentacle Trauma under the band name Brother Octopus. This is the second album for Edmonton band and is set for a November 27 release. With a unique style of mixing folk, electronic and rock, the pair seems to focus on a variety of sounds while also paying close attention to word choice. At first listen, the lyrics seem almost random, but the lyrics complement fun variation in the instrumentals.

The album begins with an eerie introduction, reminding the listener of the ocean’s depths. Brother Octopus prides themselves in creating interesting and unexpected lyrics—like in Tentacle Trauma’s second song, “Recreational Zoo. All six songs have distinct sounds ranging from softer melodies to upbeat raps. - The Gazette

Why you should check them out:
From some strange, future ocean comes Brother Octopus. Brother Octopus’s work is funny and cute, but don’t make the mistake of thinking they’re just saccharine songs – the band is a pop adventure reminiscent of your favorite picture book as a child. The band delivers girl/boy vocals, interesting melodies, beats, a little rapping, and guitar and imagery to fill it all out. Songs about old computers, love, and the beach (appropriately enough) make up the band’s first release, Yukiko. The lyrics are simple, sung fluidly by the cephalopod man himself, and the songs danceable. Especially on Bro’s upcoming EP, Tentacle Trauma, where tracks like “Boogie Boogie” are all about hittin’ the floor: “There’s no such thing as rock and roll in the dance clubs, there’s only fancy beats.” Also notable on this track: references (and perhaps an homage to) Vanilla Ice as well as rhyming “ladies and gentlemen of the jury” with “night at the Roxbury.” You just can’t help but smile when there’s a ditty about watching too much Jurassic Park and needing this kind of reassurance, “there’s no need to stress, they’ll never clone a T-rex.” Expect the unexpected from Brother Octopus. The new EP is due out in November, so keep your ear to the ground.

Background check:
Someone by the name of Brother Octopus is making indie music about playgrounds and love straight out of Canada. Brother Octopus and his female sidekick, Lady Friend, are a bundle of mysteries wrapped in a pop sheen and catchy tunes. I’m not going to lie, when I first heard the name Brother Octopus I immediately thought I was about to listen to a Doctor Octagon record full of dirty rap songs about our imminent underwater future. This couldn’t be further from the truth – it’s not that dirty, and Kool Keith is nowhere to be found. Brother Octopus plays guitar and writes songs, and his Lady Friend sings and tambourines like a pro. - MySpoonful

Why you should check them out:
From some strange, future ocean comes Brother Octopus. Brother Octopus’s work is funny and cute, but don’t make the mistake of thinking they’re just saccharine songs – the band is a pop adventure reminiscent of your favorite picture book as a child. The band delivers girl/boy vocals, interesting melodies, beats, a little rapping, and guitar and imagery to fill it all out. Songs about old computers, love, and the beach (appropriately enough) make up the band’s first release, Yukiko. The lyrics are simple, sung fluidly by the cephalopod man himself, and the songs danceable. Especially on Bro’s upcoming EP, Tentacle Trauma, where tracks like “Boogie Boogie” are all about hittin’ the floor: “There’s no such thing as rock and roll in the dance clubs, there’s only fancy beats.” Also notable on this track: references (and perhaps an homage to) Vanilla Ice as well as rhyming “ladies and gentlemen of the jury” with “night at the Roxbury.” You just can’t help but smile when there’s a ditty about watching too much Jurassic Park and needing this kind of reassurance, “there’s no need to stress, they’ll never clone a T-rex.” Expect the unexpected from Brother Octopus. The new EP is due out in November, so keep your ear to the ground.

Background check:
Someone by the name of Brother Octopus is making indie music about playgrounds and love straight out of Canada. Brother Octopus and his female sidekick, Lady Friend, are a bundle of mysteries wrapped in a pop sheen and catchy tunes. I’m not going to lie, when I first heard the name Brother Octopus I immediately thought I was about to listen to a Doctor Octagon record full of dirty rap songs about our imminent underwater future. This couldn’t be further from the truth – it’s not that dirty, and Kool Keith is nowhere to be found. Brother Octopus plays guitar and writes songs, and his Lady Friend sings and tambourines like a pro. - MySpoonful

Brother Octopus is an Edmonton, AB duo comprised of Brother Octopus and the tambourine-wielding Lady Friend. Their debut EP, Yukilo (named after a dog Yuki and a cat Kilo), comes out on May 8th.

Checking in at 5-songs and a mere 13-minutes, it's a blink-and-you-miss-it kind of affair. Bookended by the short harmonic "Yuki" (0:43) and "Kilo" (0:59), it really comes down to a three song sample.

The arrangements add synthesizers and other electronics to more traditional folk instrumentation.


The arrangements are not what stands out on the record, however. It's the sense of humour in the lyrics that is most appealing. Lines like 'Little Mermaid 3/that went straight to DVD/an epic fail from Walt Disney' (from "Underwater Mysteries") and 'you're an old computer/still running Windows '95' (from "Old Computer") are the kind of thing you'd expect from The Magnetic Fields.

In fact, if it weren't for the lyrics, "Old Computer" would be downright dull compared to the hooks in "Amusement Park" and "Underwater Mysteries".

In the end it's hard to judge Yukilo. The sample size is small, but it shows hints of great potential.

7/10 - Snobs Music

Yukilo opens with a short, beautiful track entitled “Yuki”, a song some impressive vocal harmonies that force even the most Neanderthal –like punk drummer to pause in admiration for the sheer talent and emotion that is presented through the song. The second track “Underwater Mysteries” picks up the pace a little and contains colorful lyrics about various Disney movies flopping and a couple lathering one another in sunscreen before scuba diving. Normally, I’d tear songs like this a new asshole, but I genuinely enjoyed the lyrics and found that the banality of some of the images presented contributed to overall, emotional impression the song made on me in a positive way. Song number three, “Old Computer”, maintains the tempo set by its predecessor and presents the story of an individual analysing the meaning behind the end of their old computers life. Up next is “Amusement Park”, a fuzzed out, near industrial song that is delivered with groovy intensity and an edge that truly makes it stand out. The final track, “Kilo” ends the album the same way it started, with a nice, short harmonious ode that is written about a cat. All in all, I really enjoyed this album. Although the lyrics struck me as a bit odd, the music was phenomenal and the lyrics did nothing to detract from my overall listening experience. - Where's Ernie?

Who’s Brother Octopus? How did you two meet?

[Brother Octopus] I am Brother Octopus, I used to live in the pacific ocean but after realizing that life is dark and lonely under the sea I decided to part ways with my fellow sea creatures and explore the land found outside of the water. As I exited the ocean, I encountered my fellow bandmate ‘Lady Friend’.

[Lady Friend] I was serving time in Jail, practicing my tambourine skills when Brother Octopus had found me and busted me out. We immediately had a strong connection with each other and we decided to start this project. I never looked back since.

[Brother Octopus] We now reside in Edmonton, Alberta Canada.



What’s the story behind your artists name?

[Lady Friend] *laughs* this is all on you

[Brother Octopus] Right, well after spending most my life under the sea, I have met numerous characters such as The Little Mermaid, Sponge Bob Square Pants and Echo the Dolphin. We all grew up together, we considered each other family, I was like their unofficial brother… Brother Octopus.

[Lady Friend] I just enjoyed his name too much, we decided to name the band after him.



What are your music influences?

[Brother Octopus] We really take advantage of the male/female vocals. Similar to the style of “Of Monsters And Men” and “Edward Sharpe & The Magnetic Zeros”. Although, my influences include bands such as “King Cobb Steely” and “Digitalism”.

[Lady Friend] I have many influences, “Bob Dylan”, “Matthew Good” and “Daft Punk” are just a few.



What’s your method at the time of writing a song?

[Brother Octopus] Our recipe for songwriting is as follows. First and foremost, the music is created without lyrics.

[Lady Friend] After the music has been finalized and structured the way we intended it to be, we thoroughly listen to the music and decide what mood it projects.

[Brother Octopus] Once the mood of the song is determined, we start writing the lyrics which tend to be quite silly but serious at the same time. We want to give listeners something different, something they have never heard before.

[Lady Friend] We also like to give our fans a performance like they’ve never seen before. Have you ever seen a half-human / half-octopus man wearing a top hat singing songs about Amusement Parks or Old Computers? Not likely.



Tentacle Trauma. Can you give us an insight about this new record? How was the recording and writing process? How you guys came out with the name and any release date?

[Brother Octopus] We debuted our EP entitled “Yukilo” in early May 2012. Meanwhile, we’ve been intensively working on our upcoming second EP entitled “Tentacle Trauma”. This recording has been in the works for almost a year now. It offers a variety of dynamics, for instance, on this record you can expect to hear a crunk-rap song about anti-drug use to an electronic influenced track explaining how Jurassic Park could happen.

[Lady Friend] We recorded “Tentacle Trauma” with Dan Mabee from Zounds Of Sounds Recording Studio. He’s so much fun to work with and definitely added some insight to our music.

[Brother Octopus] As for the album name, you try playing guitar with tentacles for fingers! It’s traumatizing! “Tentacle Trauma” is expected to be released in late September.



What has been the funniest moment you guys have been or took part while touring?

[Lady Friend] We played an outdoor festival recently and a random guy gave us $20 and mentioned he loved our music. It’s not really a funny moment, but it was definitely uplifting.

[Brother Octopus] It’s the little things that can keep a band moving.



Are there any more plans for the future we should be aware of?

[Brother Octopus] Yes, there will be flying cars, moving sidewalks and robot maids.

[Lady Friend] I think he means regarding our music…

[Brother Octopus] Oh, we plan to start booking more shows and possibly a Canada/USA tour might be seen in the future of Brother Octopus.



Do you guys feel you are moving on the right direction?

[Brother Octopus] There’s absolutely no doubt in my mind that we’re moving in the right direction.

[Lady Friend] i second that statement.
- Vents Magazine

Sometimes a rare gem is right around the corner or even in one’s own backyard. Other times a rare gem has been visible for a long time one just needed to open his or her eyes to see it. In the case of this next Indie Group, Brother Octopus, they are a rare gem that music lovers will enjoy discovering. The group is made of Brother Octopus and his “Lady Friend” that is sure to be one of the best collaboration out there in the Indie Music Scene. Their music is also something special that comes out sounding new, innovative, and refreshing to the ears. Check out what the pair had to say about their music, their quest to bring their music to the masses, and the Indie Music Scene.

Isaac: Thank you for being a part of our weekly music interview spotlights. Let’s get started. The Indie Music Industry is an amazing beast. Many music critics have stated that Indie Music is on the rise with many new performers being discovered each day. Do you believe that indie music artists can rise to the level of stardom that their major music studio counterparts are able to now?

Brother Octopus: I agree with the fact that indie music is on the rise and I am 100% OK with that. We’re an independent group and when we see an indie music artist making it big, it gives us hope. In regards to your question, I definitely believe that we can rise to reach the level of stardom that major music industry is so accustomed to, I can bet my tentacles on it!




Isaac: What do you feel has been your biggest contribution you have made to Indie Music Industry thus far in your career?

Brother Octopus: We like being weird, when people attend our live shows it’s like a smack in the face but in a good sense. I don’t think people really know what to think when they witness us, which is our way of waking people up to get them to realize that there is much more music out there than Drake and Rhianna. In a world that’s bland, we’re trying to liven it up.

Isaac: I am interested to know if you could go back and change anything about your own musical career, what would it be and why?

Lady Friend: Our musical career has only begun, literally. We released our debut EP in May 2012 entitled “Yukilo” and have only played a few shows since then. In the meantime, we’ve been hard at work recording our soon to be released EP entitled “Tentacle Trauma”. I don’t have any regrets, how about you Brother Octopus?

Brother Octopus: My only regret is that we didn’t start this project sooner! It’s just too much fun! I’m happy with the feedback we’ve been receiving from our fans though. It reminds me of back home in the pacific ocean...

Isaac: I am curious to know do you feel that the music industry as a whole is surrounded by an endless pool of undiscovered talents or overcrowded with mediocre performers.

Brother Octopus: This world isn’t large enough for the amount of talent found upon the surface. There are so many artists that don’t receive proper recognition, only because there’s just this overflowing amount of bands being developed each day. I wouldn’t say their all gems, but for the most part, I really enjoy the undiscovered, In fact, I prefer it.

Isaac: Who has influenced you with their own music performances and why?

Brother Octopus: Foo Fighters always puts on a great show. Dave Grohl is like the energizer bunny, I admire his dedication. However, on the completely opposite end of the musical spectrum, I recall seeing the band “The Residents” and they put on the weirdest performance I’ve ever seen in my life. If you listen to their music too, it’s even weirder. Although, it gave me some insight as to how different the music scene really is.

Isaac: Are you currently signed with any of the Indie Music Labels? If not, what are you looking for in any music label that you hope will complement your music?

Lady Friend: We’re currently releasing our music through Oak Apple Records, which is an Edmonton-based independent label.

Isaac: What do you feel has been one of the biggest challenges for you to bring your music to the masses?

Lady Friend: The biggest challenge for me is choosing what outfit to wear. Every lady knows that their clothes have to match in order to be successful.

Brother Octopus: and as she is choosing what outfit to wear, I’m encountering my own challenges which involve booking shows, promoting the music and preparing our next steps.

Isaac: One of the best attributes for any performer to possess is tenacity. What is your professional and/or personal drive that has made you continue to make great music over the years?

Brother Octopus: Music is my passion and when you’re passionate about something, tenacity comes naturally. The household names didn’t earn their place by sitting on the sofa watching soap operas, they were dedicated and driven to become successful in music. I like to think I have that same drive.

Lady Friend: You can drive Brother Octopus; I’ll tag along for the ride. - Juniors Cave