When Montreal’s Braids released their debut record Native Speaker in 2011, people were quick to call them “Animal Collective at their most hormonally charged” and the band became an indie favorite.

Braids returned this year with a new record Flourish // Perish. With this release, the band has evolved and the new record is a lot like your family’s favorite cousin who’s back visiting from her first year away at university. She’s got a new haircut and attitude to match. You’re not sure if she’s still everybody’s favorite, but you discover she’s grown up and become more interesting.

When I met with Braids‘ amazing singer, Raphaelle, she bristled (at first) when I asked her about the new sound and the exit of former member Katie, but I got the full story behind the next stage of this indie favorite’s evolution. This is one of my favorite interviews I’ve done this year. Listen to our chat.

Tracks played on the show...

1) BRAIDS Flourish // Perish “In Kind”

2) BRAIDS Flourish // Perish “Fruend”

3) BRAIDS Native Speaker “Lammicken” (partial/background)

4) BRAIDS Flourish // Perish “Girl”

ALL songs CANCON