Welcome to the Virtual Museum, a place for art that you, unfortunately, may not find in physical galleries.
Brand New is a band from Long Island, NY that started in 2000 but ultimately still exists today... we'll get into that. Their music genre is debatable, especially from album to album, but is most broadly classified as rock with elements of emo, post-hardcore, punk and maybe even indie. The band's debut album "Your Favorite Weapon" is a fun listen with lyrics reflecting young adult angst and college age life overall. The bands discography took a sharp turn for the darker, more introspective side after that with their widely known release "Déjà Entendu" followed by "The Devil and God Are Raging Inside Me" and "Daisy." Since the band's last full length in 2009, fans have clung to cryptic messages, the occasional tour and the release of some music. I wouldn't say the band has the strongest aesthetic, but over the years they have certainly cultivated art.
Lyric Booklets
A long time ago, in an album sleeve there were instructions to "send a dollar to the address enclosed" if you wanted a copy of the lyrics. Most people who did so probably forgot about these books by the time they were mailed out almost a decade later. Since then, the band has made the mysterious original lyrics booklet as well as another one available online.
Live Show
Brand New doesn't necessarily have incredible production, but seeing them live is a big deal since they are not a band who does traditional year long or even year to year touring. One thing they do that is unique is their artistic dressing of their mike stands with (usually) live flowers. The tradition is believed to have started in 2012, but their meaning is all speculation -- yet another mystery. If you're a Brand New fan, seeing them live is something you have to put on your bucket list. Luckily and surprisingly, the band is doing a tour this summer with Modest Mouse.
Fan Art
Tumblr and other platforms such as Etsy encourage fans to express their love for a certain band through the creation of their own art. This inspirational cycle is mutually beneficial and really brings music to life.
Lyrics
If you were to sit and read many Brand New lyrics you may think you are actually reading poetry. I recommend listening to "Limousine" and reading the story behind it.
Vinyl / Cassettes
Brand New has had a variety of releases and color variants for their albums and even "leaked demos" on vinyl and cassette. Their participation in Record Store Day last year caused a commotion since their vinyl hasn't really been mass produced and easy to find until more recently. Rare or not, vinyl is certainly a precious thing to many music lovers and collectors and the attention to detail in packaging provides a hands-on experience with music and its corresponding artwork.
