Boy and Bear release two new songs and reveal upcoming performance at the Opera House forecourt.

Boy & Bear have embarked on an exciting new journey with the release of a double A-side single titled ‘Where Does Life Begin’ and ‘Vertigo’, along with the announcement of their largest headline show to date at the Sydney Opera House Forecourt in December.

‘Where Does Life Begin’ and ‘Vertigo’ showcase the band’s ability to blend contemplation with hope. Lead single ‘Where Does Life Begin’ delves into nostalgia, expressing frontman Dave Hosking’s longing for the carefree days of youth. Hosking reflects, “Sometimes the passing of time changes us in a way where we can feel like we’ve lost a part of ourselves.” He further explains, “In our 20s we seem less inhibited and more confident about what’s in front of us, but the realities of life can eventually start to catch up. I liked the simplicity of the idea of watching people dancing from afar and feeling like maybe I no longer belonged there.”

On the other hand, ‘Vertigo’ takes a more lighthearted approach, as Hosking describes it as exploring “the awkwardness of life and time and change.” Embracing uncertainty with humor and openness, both tracks come accompanied by music videos steeped in ’80s and ’90s nostalgia, directed by Jeremy Koren, also known as Grey Ghost, and shot using vintage cameras and 8mm film.

The new singles were born out of recording sessions in Los Angeles and Marrickville with producer Justin Stanley, known for his work with artists like Prince, Paul McCartney, and Beck. These tracks preview Boy & Bear’s upcoming album, offering a glimpse into the next chapter of their musical evolution.

“It feels very exciting,” Hosking shares about this fresh phase of their career. “I never get tired of releasing new songs into the wilderness. Of course, there are a few nerves, but generally speaking, it’s nice to have a new chapter of music out there.”

Their monumental show at the Sydney Opera House Forecourt on December 14th promises to be a memorable occasion, where old favorites will meet new material. Hollow Coves and Darcie Haven will join Boy & Bear as special guests for this momentous event. Bassist Dave Symes enthuses, “It will be a special moment to release the new album at this show, and get to play some of the singles for the first time. We always like to make a journey for our audiences, so there will be a good mix of old and new — and hopefully some special guests.”

Tickets for Boy & Bear’s Forecourt show are currently available for purchase through the Sydney Opera House.

In anticipation of this exciting release and show, fans can delve further into the world of Boy & Bear by checking out their cover of Robbie Williams’ ‘Feel’ and exploring triple j’s Hottest 200 Of Australian Songs and 100 Best Unearthed Discoveries lists.