We're not sure if its been said, but Brazos are TOTALLY the Austin Texas version of White Rabbits (albeit with more classical piano and less drums). The Texan pop monsters groove on playing with rhythm and vocal harmonies behind their lyrics, and their debut album Phosphorescent Blues is chock full of well constructed ear goodies.

Following a significant two years of buzz in Austin, including opening for big names like Grizzly Bear and Vampire Weekend, Brazos are finally ready to take it to the national level. The Blues LP is chock full of the same charming lyricism they were known for, and even an entire piano composition ("Pue"). Martin Crane started as a solo act; writing two EP's before recruiting guitarist Nathan Stein and bassist Paul Price to join him on stage. He wrote the record in a week, cooped up in his South Austin home, interacting with musicians and listening to his own collection of tunes. The lyrics are musings on "transient love, friendship, communities" and the tumultuous relationships that come with growing older... rich imagery is all over the place. Crane even adapted an Adrienne Rich poem as a song ("The Observer"). Thus the record has a truly connectible quality to it, while exploring the complex emotional palette of the mad, mad world out there... with a twist of Texas (of course).

Phosphorescent Blue is out this week on Autobus Records. Brazos is on tour with White Denim, and playing Kung Fu Necktie in Philadelphia tonight. joe puglisi

Brazos on Tour

11/13 - Kung Fu Necktie - Philadelphia, PA
11/14 - Rock N Roll Hotel - Washington, DC
11/16 - The Basement - Nashville, TN
11/17 - The Bottletree - Birmingham, AL
11/18 - The Earl - Atlanta, GA
11/19 - The Social - Orlando, FL
11/20 - Cafe Eleven - St Augustine, FL
11/22 - One Eyed Jacks - New Orleans, LA

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MP3: Brazos - "Day Glo" (Phosphorescent Blue)
Brazos on Myspace