Pullman, a supergroup featuring members of Tortoise, Come, and Rex, releases new single “Bray”
Chicago-based post-rock supergroup Pullman, featuring members of Tortoise, Come, and Rex, has resurfaced after two decades with their latest single, “Bray.” The track serves as a melodic blend of rough edges and inviting warmth, drawing influences from both Midwest noise experimentation and ambient tranquility.
The band, which consists of Ken “Bundy K.” Brown (Tortoise), Curtis Harvey (Rex), Chris Brokaw (Come), Doug McCombs (Tortoise), and drummer Tim Barnes, who later joined the ensemble, has offered “Bray” as a precursor to their upcoming album, III. Pullman’s previous works, such as Turnstyles & Junkpiles and Viewfinder, were acclaimed for their delicate fingerstyle precision. However, with “Bray,” Pullman embarks on a new sonic journey, transitioning from rustic folk elements to distorted timbres in just two minutes, creating a unique blend of textures and tones that juxtapose serrated and warm qualities.
The genesis of III (set to release on January 9th via Western Vinyl) is rooted in a profound tale of perseverance and companionship. Following drummer Tim Barnes’s diagnosis of early-onset Alzheimer’s in 2021 at the age of 54, he and Bundy K. Brown embarked on a creative endeavor that later evolved into a full-fledged record. Brown meticulously pieced together the album to retain the band’s distinctive intimacy, transforming what started as a modest project into a significant musical endeavor.
More than just a musical reunion, III embodies the resilient spirit of community and camaraderie. Through tracks like “Bray,” Pullman’s latest offering explores themes of remembrance, determination, and the immutable passage of time. The album encapsulates the band’s collective experiences, feelings, and reflections on life, contributing to a body of work that transcends individual contributions and celebrates the enduring strength of relationships and creative collaborations.
Pullman’s latest effort in III is not merely a sonic exploration but a testimony to the enduring power of shared experiences and the ability of music to encapsulate the essence of life through its evocative sounds and emotive textures. “Bray” serves as a fitting precursor to the album, providing audiences with a glimpse into a transformative musical journey that captures the essence of Pullman’s rich history and innovative spirit.