Chemistry revolves around collisions that generate light, heat, pressure, and sound as elements transform and unite. We often overlook the power and potential of these in their raw state, which can lead to something new and unprecedented. That’s exactly what Modern Chemistry’s Joe Zorzi and Brendan Hourican are demonstrating. With the release of their upcoming individual contributions to a split two-song release, they represent a joint effort in going solo and a manifestation of two big ideas in one compact package.
Brendan the Navigator describes “Animal” in his own words as “feeling embarrassed about how much I want someone, and lacking the courage to do anything about it”. This vulnerability in itself can damage ones ego, never mind proclaiming it as your first endeavour at going solo. Brendan recorded guitars and synths in his bedroom, and vocals and drums at Little Hollywood Studios. Creating a track whose melodies are reminiscent to that of Phoebe Bridgers, Holly Humberstone and Ethel Cain – super catchy and hyper personal. “Animal’’ is the soundtrack to modern heartache – emotional and relatable it’s here to be your companion in the darkness, or better yet, lift you out of it.
Meanwhile thepaintingcompany’s “just a little off!” draws inspiration from 80s music moguls Phil Collins and Peter Gabriel. With a modern twist, the track produces an electric and textured soundscape with a depth of emotion. “just a little off!” explores a relatable theme for many: staying present and overcoming choice paralysis. Lyrically, he says “it just focuses on how easy it is to get stuck in your own head. It’s hard to stay in the present and focus on what you’re actually doing”.
As a whole, the split single exudes a “future nostalgia” vibe and showcases both artists as fearless, honest and vulnerable in expressing their emotions through impressive lyrics. Ultimately, Modern Chemistry’s Joe Zorzi and Brendan Houricans joint effort stands as an eye-opening outing that demonstrates how nothing – lyrically or musically – is off limits for these two artists.
Listen to the split single below…