Burlington-based band Robber Robber — featuring Nina Cates (vocals/rhythm guitar), Zack James (drums), Will Krulak (lead guitar), and Carney Hemler (bass) — is set to release their debut album, ‘Wild Guess,’ on July 26th. Alongside this announcement, they have shared their new single and video, “Backup Plan.”
Movement and art often stem from tension and release, and Robber Robber’s debut album, “Wild Guess,” exemplifies this concept. Rather than just being an indie record, it feels like an exploration of tension and release. Drawing inspiration from post-punk influences and the diverse Burlington music scene, the album aims to translate imagery into sound, capturing a broad spectrum of light and dark tones. Co-produced by Cates and James and recorded with Benny Yurco (Grace Potter) and Urian Hackney (The Armed, Rough Francis, Iggy Pop), the band has crafted the most polished version of Robber Robber yet, encapsulating the dynamic energy of their live performances.
Following their lead single “Sea or War,” the latest single “Backup Plan” features methodical, mechanical guitar riffs that gradually blend into fuzzier layers, creating a sense of endurance. Cates explains, “I wrote ‘Backup Plan’ while helping a friend through a tough relationship and reflecting on when it’s worth putting in the effort and when it’s best to move on. The song delves into the unease of unaddressed issues and the uncertainty of whether it’s worth bringing them up. This theme resonates in both close friendships and romantic relationships.”
Watch Robber Robber’s “Backup Plan” Video below:
James and Cates have been collaborating musically since childhood. Immersed in the local DIY scene, they started writing songs and eventually formed Robber Robber. The past few years have allowed the project to evolve: “This approach let us really conceptualize and refine what we wanted Robber Robber to become,” says the band. “Our project is very conceptual and hard to define, which is part of its refreshing appeal.”
Driven by curiosity and minimal creative constraints, Robber Robber embraces the tumultuous nature of their twenties amidst a chaotic world. This chaos permeates their music, expressing raw, instinctive reactions and authentic emotions.
Even when not performing live, “Wild Guess” invites listeners to lean in, wait for the moments of release, and experience its eclectic, overwhelming sound. It embodies the unpredictability of human interaction, making you feel connected even when you’re alone.
