For those familiar with the name Tune-Yards, it evokes the image of a significant entity. Over their decade-long journey, the duo of Nate Brenner and Merrill Garbus has daringly ventured into the vibrant realm of experimental art-pop, unafraid to interact with, admire, and at times question their surroundings while doing so. The energy in their music is undeniable, yet contrasts sharply with the serene Los Angeles morning they currently inhabit.
“The past few months have been wonderful,” Nate shares. “Suddenly, it’s April, so we’re just savoring spring and trying to rehearse as much as we can.” Merrill interjects with a playful smile, “I always let Nate speak first because he tends to be the more optimistic one,” she laughs. “Meanwhile, I’m often thinking that the world is ending and our country is in turmoil, which makes it a strange time to release anything. Yet, we’re doing fine and it is spring – both perspectives can coexist.”
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As the conversation progresses, a thoughtful depth becomes evident in their replies—a transparency that threads throughout their artistic output. Even amidst intricate vocal blends, lively rhythmic patterns, and a fearless embrace of limitations, the duo’s perceptive essence has consistently underpinned their sound. Their work has candidly engaged with pressing societal issues, opening the door to a liberating dialogue that resonates as a quiet harmony within the surrounding chaos.
With their latest offering ‘Better Dreaming,’ their focus on reflection remains constant, introducing new themes surrounding our lifestyle, which they have termed ‘the age of interruption.’ “The realization struck during COVID,” Merrill explains. “There was a strong yearning for a return to normalcy, yet everything I was reading made me feel we could never go back,” she reflects, choosing her words thoughtfully. “As a species, and perhaps as part of Western liberal society, it seems we find control in progress and planning, much of which is tied to financial gain. We feel compelled to see our plans realized, celebrate achievements, and then move on to the next.”
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Her voice carries a striking bluntness that makes even the most profound topics feel accessible. “But now, it appears we are in a state of constant interruption – rendering the notion of progress somewhat ridiculous,” she continues. “This realization led me to reflect on the age of distraction, where our attention has become a commodity. It’s ironic that some are profiting from our inability to focus—thus it’s indeed an age of interruption.”
This moment of clarity seemingly drives the direction of the duo’s upcoming album. Utilizing their signature talent to manipulate and play with sound, the album carries a call to action, evident in their two singles: ‘Heartbreak’, which embraces the universal trials of romance, and ‘Limelight’, a bass-heavy track that incorporates unexpected elements, including dissonant harmonies and samples of their son. “It takes considerable effort to focus on creating,” Nate describes when discussing their artistic process. “In many ways, we were focused primarily on crafting the production of the tracks. But that intent ultimately shaped the album.”
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While this newfound focus paved the way for their latest LP, it also has led to personal and creative revelations within their partnership. After over 15 years of making music and a record of albums, projects, and tours, the duo insists there are still fresh insights to uncover—both as collaborators and individuals. “I feel like we’re constantly learning about one another,” Nate says. “We both approach work differently—if there’s a deadline approaching, I want to finish as soon as possible. Merrill, however, thrives under the pressure of the last-minute rush,” he reflects thoughtfully. “After nearly 15 years, I understand that’s integral to her process; she needs that urgency to produce her best work.”
A shared glance passes between them before Merrill elaborates. “Throughout this process, I’m discovering more about myself, as well as our collaborative dynamic,” she continues. “I’ve been attempting to impose order on the chaos. It’s a fascinating challenge, especially given how much we know about chaotic creativity from our experience in music.” After a brief pause, Nate adds, looking at Merrill, “I feel fortunate to be in a long-term musical collaboration with someone who continues to improve,” he smiles warmly. “Merrill consistently pushes her limits, which is truly remarkable.”
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Now, after a significant period of reflection and creation, the duo is preparing to step outside their studio world as they take the album on tour. Their enthusiasm for the rehearsal process radiates, having evolved during their three-year hiatus from performing. “The song exists in the album context, which is a different experience than playing it live. When we rehearse it live for the first time, it feels almost like we’re a band covering our own song. It’s Tune-Yards’ interpretation of Tune-Yards!” Nate chuckles.
However, Merrill emphasizes that the
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For those familiar with the music scene, the name Tune-Yards evokes the sense of a significant entity. With a career spanning more than ten years, the duo, which includes Nate Brenner and