Seattle-based Chinese American Bear, a unique crossover act, formed by Bryce Barsten and Anne Tong, is set to release their debut album “Wah!!!” on October 18th via Moshi Moshi. Known for their unique blend of Chinese mando-pop and Western indie pop, the duo creates vibrant and emotive music that resonates with their multicultural background.
Their latest single, “Heartbreaker 伤心情歌,” is a lovely Mando-English indie pop gem. This track is accompanied by a sweet, 60s-inspired video, adding a nostalgic visual charm to the song. The video, shot by the band themselves, complements the playful yet poignant theme of the song perfectly. “We had this loose idea about someone who dreamed of becoming a big music star and then getting their heart broken by it. The verse lyrics are “Come and listen. I want to be a big star. Just you wait and see. Shining brightly and happily.”
Bryce and Anne draw from their diverse musical backgrounds and personal experiences to create their distinct sound. Their music is deeply personal and reflective of their journey as an interracial couple. Their story includes overcoming cultural differences and family expectations, with Bryce learning Mandarin to connect better with Anne’s parents. This journey of understanding and acceptance is beautifully mirrored in their music, which aims to bridge cultural gaps and celebrate their shared experiences.
Enjoy the video below:
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photography by Eleanor Petry
