Broken Social Scene’s Return & The Resurgence of Indie Supergroups
Broken Social Scene’s announcement of Remember the Humans, their first album in nearly a decade, alongside a North American tour with Metric and Stars, isn’t just music news – it’s a signal. It speaks to a growing appetite for collaborative, emotionally resonant music, and a potential shift in how bands approach touring and album releases. This isn’t a comeback; it’s a re-calibration for a changing music landscape.
The Power of the Collective: Why Supergroups Are Back
For years, the traditional band model faced challenges – maintaining creative energy, navigating individual ambitions, and the sheer logistical complexity of keeping everyone aligned. The supergroup format, however, offers a solution. Broken Social Scene, always a collective of Toronto musicians, exemplifies this. It allows artists to explore different creative avenues without abandoning their core projects.
We’re seeing this trend accelerate. Consider the recent formation of Boygenius (Phoebe Bridgers, Julien Baker, Lucy Dacus) and their critically acclaimed debut. Their success isn’t just about individual talent; it’s about the synergy created by bringing together established artists. According to a recent report by Luminate, collaborative tracks have seen a 25% increase in streaming volume over the past three years, indicating a clear consumer preference for these types of projects.
Pro Tip: For musicians, consider the benefits of collaboration. It expands your reach, introduces you to new audiences, and can reignite creative passion.
Touring in the Age of Bundling: The “All the Feelings Tour” Model
The “All the Feelings Tour,” featuring Broken Social Scene, Metric, and Stars, is a smart move. Bundling tours – pairing multiple acts with established fanbases – is becoming increasingly common. This strategy mitigates risk for all parties involved, offering a wider draw and shared marketing costs.
Live Nation’s Q1 2024 earnings report highlighted a 15% increase in concert attendance driven, in part, by multi-artist events. Fans also benefit, getting to see multiple acts they enjoy in one evening. This model is particularly effective for indie and alternative artists who may not be able to fill large venues on their own.
The economic realities of touring have changed. Rising transportation costs, venue fees, and competition for dates necessitate innovative approaches. Bundling tours are a practical solution, offering stability and increased revenue potential.
The Album as an Event: Reclaiming the Long-Form Experience
In the age of streaming, the album can feel diminished. Broken Social Scene’s deliberate approach – a nearly decade-long gap between full-length releases – suggests a commitment to crafting a meaningful, cohesive body of work. This contrasts with the pressure to constantly release singles and maintain a perpetual online presence.
Artists like Taylor Swift have demonstrated the power of the “album as an event” with meticulously planned releases and elaborate marketing campaigns. This strategy fosters anticipation and encourages fans to engage with the music on a deeper level. The success of vinyl sales – which have seen a 15-year high, according to the Recording Industry Association of America (RIAA) – further supports the idea that fans still value the physical album experience.
Did you know? Vinyl sales surpassed CD sales for the first time since the 1980s in 2022, demonstrating a renewed appreciation for the tangible aspects of music consumption.
The Future of Indie: Hybrid Models and Fan Engagement
The trends highlighted by Broken Social Scene’s return point to a future where indie artists embrace hybrid models. This includes:
- Strategic Collaborations: Forming collectives and supergroups to expand creative possibilities and reach new audiences.
- Bundled Touring: Sharing resources and risks through multi-artist tours.
- Deliberate Album Releases: Prioritizing quality over quantity and treating albums as significant cultural events.
- Direct-to-Fan Engagement: Utilizing platforms like Bandcamp and Patreon to build direct relationships with fans and offer exclusive content.
The key to success will be authenticity and a genuine connection with the audience. Fans are increasingly discerning and demand more than just music; they want experiences, community, and a sense of shared values.
FAQ
Q: Will Broken Social Scene continue to release music after Remember the Humans?
A: It’s too early to say definitively, but the band’s history suggests they’ll continue to create when the inspiration strikes, rather than adhering to a strict release schedule.
Q: Are supergroups a sustainable model for artists?
A: Yes, if managed effectively. Clear communication, shared creative vision, and a fair distribution of responsibilities are crucial for success.
Q: How can smaller bands adopt the “bundled tour” strategy?
A: Networking with other bands in your genre and approaching local promoters with a collaborative tour proposal are good starting points.
Q: Is the physical album still relevant in the streaming era?
A: Absolutely. Vinyl and CDs offer a tangible connection to the music and a unique listening experience that streaming can’t replicate.
What are your thoughts on the return of Broken Social Scene? Share your opinions in the comments below! Don’t forget to explore our other articles on the evolving music industry and emerging artist strategies. Subscribe to our newsletter for the latest insights and updates.
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