Hypnotic Brass Ensemble // "Mary"

 Throughout the course of history we've all been exposed to a handful of "family bands" whether it be such names as The Jackson 5, Hanson or The Partridge Family.  The Hypnotic Brass Ensemble, also known as the "Bad Boys of Jazz" are simply on a whole other level when it comes to the term. Originally based out of Chicago, this group consists of 8 brothers who all grew up in the same household, each playing horn instruments since they were old enough to hold onto one. Though they played together throughout their childhood with their dad, Phil Cohran, it wasn't until the early 2000's that they formed what is now the Hypnotic Brass Ensemble. Aside from having nearly 10 studio albums under their belt, they've accompanied a list of influential artists on record as well as on stages across the world. They've performed with the likes of Wu Tang Clan, Mosdef, Gorillaz, De La Soul, The B-52's, Erykah Badu, Childish Gambino and perhaps most fondly, the late Prince.

The band joined us at our Brooklyn soundstage this week to shoot a video for their new breezy summer single, "Mary". When trumpet player, Yosh told us they were all brothers it was easy to assume that he just meant they were very close friends that grew up together. Something about the idea of 8 siblings playing music together successfully all those years seemed difficult to imagine. He clarified what he meant and from that point on it was very apparent that they were in fact family. Everything from the way they moved and played together, the warm way they joked around and especially the way the backed each other up when it came to creative input for the video process. Everything they did seemed to be framed with a certain kind of harmony that only siblings have the ability to share.

The set was fairly minimal, showcasing the band in black suits against our white cyclorama wall accompanied by their instruments and even our very own piano that usually lives in our bathroom. Some of the members had their children join in on the fun wearing matching attire while making their film debut. We even had a friend of the studio come by with his well-trained Doberman Pinscher, Lincoln to make a special appearance for the final scene. We are definitely looking forward to seeing the final product. For now, catch them on tour in a city near you!