With a career spanning five studio albums, international tours across 12 countries, and millions of music video views, Bray and The Dens have carved out a distinctive place in the alt-rock and synth-pop landscape. Known for their infectious energy, sly sense of humor, and genre-blending sound, the San Francisco-based band continues to evolve with each release. Their upcoming Fall 2025 album promises to be their most ambitious work yet, offering a modern and intricate sound that shines through early singles like “Oceanography” and “Face to Face.” We sat down with Bray to talk about the creative process, growth, and what fans can expect next from this ever-evolving musical force.
- You’ve built an impressive career blending alt-rock, synth-pop, and other styles. How has your sound evolved leading up to this new album?
When I first got started, I was all about the funk. That will always be in me, but after a while I wanted to explore new territory. I started listening to artists like King Crimson and Bjork. My sound was changing, and so was I. Somewhere along the way, I started to sound like some combination of all my heroes… and hopefully something unique is born from that. These days, I’m really all over the place – Paul Weller, Future, and who knows what else.
- Songs like “Oceanography” and “Face to Face” show a new side to your music. What inspired the creative direction behind these tracks?
People inspire me. Relationships. Oceanography is a wedding gift to my wife. It tells our story so far, and describes my adoration for her.
- You’ve toured in 12 countries — how have those international experiences influenced your songwriting or stage presence?
I’ll tell you a little story, and try to keep it short. The Dens played a show in Sarajevo, and after the show this dude came up and said “I liked your show. It was to me Healthy Rock. But then after a while, I felt like it wasn’t real. I wanted to see you bleed.” We sat and talked for a while longer, and I honesty felt changed. I’ve always been a showbiz guy, but now realized that we don’t just want the good times. We want to feel sad too. I’ve always loved Charlie Chaplin, and now I understood why. Since that day, I’ve been giving much more of myself emotionally. In concert and in the recordings.
- Your songs have appeared in 11 national TV placements. How does writing for television differ from writing for your albums?
It doesn’t. I write for myself, and whatever happens with the songs, happens.
- The new album has been described as “modern, intricate, and arresting.” What can fans expect thematically and sonically this time around?
For one thing, I think the records have been growing more cohesive. Sonically, I’m digging deeper into synths with live drums, and… ‘candy’ as I call it. Candy is the little bits of confection that are there just for beauty or curiosity… or defiance. I’ve been combining live drums and live bass with synths to try and create new colours and rhythms.
- As an artist who’s already released five studio albums, what feels different or more personal about this upcoming release?
The difference is maturity. My outlook is different.
I am still a glass all-the-way full guy, but I am happy making art just because it tells the universe I’m alive. I’m a part of this whirling cinder.
- The Dens are known for their dynamic live energy. How do you translate that chemistry from the stage into the studio?
Getting into a room with other musicians is the best way to explore chemistry. A song like Balloons Pop was arranged with 4 of us in a room, blasting on a groove. Laughing and having coffee and just getting free with it. I tend to shout out during recording sessions. Sometimes I don’t even realize I’m doing it. It’s just pure inspiration.
- WOW! Your music videos have reached over 4 million views — Tell me, what role does visual storytelling play in your artistic process?
Visual art is a huge part of my life. We are surrounded by it in every day life. I’d say every song has a visual element or translation. Art is the beyond. Art is god.
- With the Fall 2025 tour approaching, what’s one song from the new album you’re most excited to perform live, and why?
Tomorrow this may change, but at the moment it’s Dive. I’m so inside of that song right now. So immersed. I forget where I am, and just drown.
- In this rapidly evolving AI era, what are your thoughts on the future of the music industry? How do you believe AI will influence it?
I used to think about things like The Music Industry. Now I find it boring. As soon as art considers business, it usually sucks. AI is powerful and convenient, but is missing one thing. Unpredictability.
- Looking ahead, how do you see Bray and The Dens continuing to evolve in the next chapter of your journey?
I see the Dens playing bigger shows again, and in new places. I’d love to play in Africa and Australia. I see the music continuing to evolve by me getting out of it’s way.
Thank you for spending this moment with me.
As Bray and The Dens gear up for their highly anticipated album release and Fall 2025 tour, one thing is clear — they’re not slowing down anytime soon. Their fearless approach to experimentation and storytelling keeps their music as fresh as it is familiar. Whether through introspective lyrics or electrifying performances, Bray and The Dens continue to push boundaries and prove why they remain one of the most exciting names in modern rock today.
