Indie rock band Mike Mains & The Branches have a brand new album coming out, and, to celebrate, they’ve released three new singles called “We’re Alive,” “Always My Forever,” and “Talk To Me.” Entitled Memory Unfixed, the album reflects Mains’ experience during the COVID-19 pandemic. It will be out on September 15 through Tooth & Nail Records.
The Michigan-based band consists of lead vocalist Mike Mains on guitar; his wife, Shannon Mains, on vocals, guitar, and keys; Alex Hirlinger on guitar and vocals; Allison Barnett on bass and vocals; and her husband, drummer Robbie Barnett. Originally founded in 2009 in Gainesville, Texas, Mike Mains & The Branches released their first EP, The Rustic EP, that same year and their first album, Home, in 2012. Memory Unfixed will be the band’s fourth full-length release.
Released with “Always My Forever” as a double single, “We’re Alive” is an ode to youth about embracing all the magnificence, mystery, and misgivings it offers. A vibrant, jangly guitar immediately kicks the track off with an infectious energy, strengthened by the upbeat, spirited drums and bass that come in. As the lyrics begin, "We're Alive" sonically softens, pairing with Mains' smooth vocals to give the song a more mellow vibe. Finishing off with the same liveliness it began with, as the instrumentals fade out, listeners are ready to accept all the magic and misery of their past.
"Always My Forever" is a slower acoustic song with a sweet ambiance. Gentle strings, light drumming, and soft crooning help soothe listeners into a tranquil state. Speaking on "Always My Forever," Mains said it "is a good, old-fashioned love song." A sentiment that is proven by the lyrics making promises of everlasting love.
"Talk To Me" is the third and most recent single to be released in preparation for Memory Unfixed. An overall mellow song that begins with easygoing guitar strumming, the energy gets kicked up a bit for the chorus when the drums and bass come in. Mains illustrates snapshots of different times during a romantic relationship for the verses, creating a lyrically visual track. "Talk To Me" also emphasizes the importance of communication in relationships.
The releases of "We're Alive," "Always My Forever," and "Talk To Me" prove that Mike Mains & The Branches are back and stronger than ever. And with both an upcoming album and a fall tour planned, the band certainly doesn't plan on stopping anytime soon. Memory Unfixed will be out on September 15, and if these three captivating singles are a peek at what to expect, then it's sure to be a phenomenon.
Stream all three singles on Spotify here.
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Photo Credit: Jen Rosenstein
