‘Learning To Dive’ by Bravo Bonez
Bravo Bonez is ready to share the debut Norwegian Pop EP from his second artistic identity, Learning to Dive.
A heartfelt, introduction to some of Bravo Bonez’ more serious thoughts and perspectives on society and the planet, Learning to Dive explores alternative themes with its dark, complex yet genuine tone. The last few years has seen Bravo Bonez seriously question some of the assumptions he has made about his place in the world, and his responsibilities as a husband, father, society member and denizen of this fragile blue planet. The EP is a result of Bravo’s growing frustration with the path of Mammon, and those who adhere to it, including himself. This music doesn’t sit well with Bravo’s usual lighter weight fare, hence the need for a separate artistic identity.
A product of diverse geographical creativity, Norwegian Pop began its life in PureSound Studios in Wellington, NZ, where it was written by Bravo in the first half of 2019. A large number of parts were also recorded there. The EP was later finished off on the island of Giske, Norway at the stunning Ocean Sound Recordings. The EP was co-produced by renowned producer Greg Haver (Manic Street Preachers, Mel. C) and Bravo, and was mixed at Modern World Studios in the UK by award-winning UK-based producer and engineer Clint Murphy (50cent, Devilskin, Kimbra). With the music written, performed and bounced between New Zealand, Norway and the UK, the creation of this EP has been a genuinely global effort.
Bravo intends to continue releasing thoughtful music with roots in 80s post-punk and pop, the Norwegian Pop EP being the first in a series of releases.
Two songs from the five-track EP will be released over the next four weeks, these being High & Dry on November 20th, and Falling Leaves on December 4th.
High and Dry is Bravo’s response to a response to the frustrations of the path of mammon and the social and emotional consequences it has costed him. It is also a “mea culpa” from a number of other perspectives and addresses the dynamics of power, trust and betrayal. The song has clear origins in music of the early-mid 1980’s, with listeners comparing it to tracks by David Bowie, Bryan Ferry and Iva Davies (Icehouse). It’s a long track (over 6 minutes) but doesn’t feel long as it steadily builds to an emotional crescendo with surging strings, horns, and saxophone. Recorded and mixed at a range of locations including New Zealand, Norway and the UK. Produced by Greg Haver and Bravo Bonez. Mixed by Clint Murphy. Guest vocalist was Alba Rose.
“Loving this track. 6+ mins of loveliness.” Martin the Producer – (Big Sound Machine @martinlumsden)
Falling Leaves was written before Covid-19 appeared, but for some reason it connects with the current zeitgeist, speaking to death, loss, sadness and fear of mortality. The track evokes the sensation of watching others slowly pass away, consequently creating an apprehension as to one’s state of living, and the inevitability of death. Every day we wake, nothing has really changed, we feel roughly the same, but we know we’re slowly passing. A dark and ominous track, but with dense layers of melody, harmony and texture. Listen out for the “horns of fear”! Recorded and mixed at a range of locations including New Zealand, Norway and the UK. Produced by Greg Haver and Bravo Bonez. Mixed by Clint Murphy. Backing vocals by Alba Rose with guitar by Andy Taylor.
