Hailing from Fond du Lac in Wisconsin, The Astronomers is the alternative pop duo from musicians Ben Baker and Michael Stensland. While they’re not of the cosmic origins their name would suggest, their big indie pop sound certainly sits amongst the stars.
Taking elements of rock and pop music, filtered through their vibrant blend of punchy rhythmic beats, laid back piano and guitar work and topped with lively brass lines, they spin a bright sound with infectiously catchy writing. Carried by their smooth vocal work tinged with piquant processing and effects, ever since their debut single with 2019’s “All In” they’ve become a small town pop sensation in the USA and beyond, racking up millions of streams of their music along the way.
Now after dropping three new singles this year including “turn out fine” featuring sammy rash, they bring us their debut full-length record with The Occasion. Featuring eleven dazzling new songs, including the singles “Bad Type”, “Hotel Rooms” and “Like the Holidays”, on their first album The Astronomers deliver a stunning release with hit after hit of instantly memorable alternative pop music.
Earning extensive radio support for various tracks lifted from the release, with The Occasion the duo drop their magnum opus that confirms the hype that’s surrounded them on their inevitable rise. Packed full of colourful synth instrumentation, energising percussion and their utterly captivating vocal work carrying honest and relatable lyricism, with their debut LP they share an impeccable sonic journey that’s flawless and charming throughout.
Commenting on the release, Michael Stensland shares, “We have always wanted to release an album since we started making music in 2019. The goal is to take our fans through different sounds, lyrics, and relatable and introspective topics.”
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Adding, “This project involved many months of revamping songs, moving to different studios, and balancing school. We’ve always loved listening all the way through our favourite artists’ projects because of the story they tell. We also know as listeners that you can often develop a relationship to an album that will last a lifetime. We hope this collection of music will do that for our listeners.”
Listen to The Occasion below
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