In 2012, tUnE-yArDs bassist Nate Brenner created a solo musical project known as, Naytronix. His first album and EP under the moniker featured an experimental pop sound covered in a haze of psychedelia and surreal streams of whatever conscious thoughts came through Brenner’s mind. On October 16, Brenner releases his sophomore album Mister Divine under City Slang Records.
On Mister Divine, Brenner does what he does best for tUnE-yArDs while showcasing his talents in songwriting, returning to the driving bass, washed out vocals, and drum machine beats witnessed on his previous record. tUnE-yArDs saxophonists Matt Nelson and Noah Bernstein bring the odd hazy texture of the music as Michael Coleman (Beep!) adds some essential synth beats. Songs like “Dream” exemplify the layering element of many different instruments, capitulating in a full yet delicate sound highlighting Brenner’s vocal and lyrical ability. The complexity of and spontaneity within the rhythm in “Back in Time” is comparable to one that you would hear out of bands like Radiohead. This song further amplifies the diverse and intricate instrumentation that Brenner uses to keep each song distinct and interesting.
Naytronix is set to tour the country starting on 10/16 in Brooklyn and ends the US leg in Oakland on November 3, only to go on to tour Europe until December.
Article by Arnav Chaturvedi