Berlin Tourist Unveils Debut Single "Get Out"
The music scene is buzzing with the arrival of Berlin Tourist, the solo project of Naarm (Melbourne)-based multi-instrumentalist and producer Tom Lee. With the release of their debut single "Get Out" Berlin Tourist offers a charged and captivating introduction, blending lo-fi dark wave with gothic post-punk guitar, relentless drum machines, and shimmering synths. At just over two minutes long, the track is a whirlwind of intensity that leaves listeners breathless.
Tom Lee, known as a founding member and guitarist of the shoe-gaze band Oceans, brings a wealth of experience and a penchant for pushing sonic boundaries to Berlin Tourist. Drawing inspiration from DIY bedroom projects like Unknown Mortal Orchestra, Eyedress, and Washed Out, Lee's innovative and experimental approach to production is at the core of Berlin Tourist's sound. This project serves as a new creative outlet for Lee, allowing him to explore different genres, styles, and instrumentation.
"I love using a drum machine in a live performance and really wanted to craft a sound around that. I also really like the idea of consuming music in a short thirty-second sample, and challenged myself to write a song that can be appreciated in a short format"
Though brief, "Get Out" packs a powerful punch both musically and thematically. The song delves into the disillusionment and nihilism that permeates the music industry, while also touching on broader issues such as generational inequality and the feelings of hopelessness experienced by today's youth.
Photo Credit: Sarah Withers Editing: Mayzie Lee
The poignant line
"I wanna be dead because I wouldn’t be scared, I just want it to feel like it used to do"
Encapsulates the deep-seated fears and emotions that resonate with many who are dissatisfied with the current state of the world and long for a simpler time.
"We were sold a dream of getting a stable job, owning a house, and living a happy life, but were actually given a cost of living crisis, environmental decay, and rampant capitalism. We yearn for a future where things make sense."
Recorded, produced, and mixed by Tom Lee at his home, with mastering handled by Joe Carra of Crystal Mastering, "Get Out" is a compliment to Lee's dedication to his craft. This debut single not only marks the beginning of Berlin Tourist's journey but also signals a bold and exciting new direction for Tom Lee as an artist.
In addition to launching Berlin Tourist, Tom Lee continues to make waves as a member of Oceans. The shoe-gaze band has already made a significant impact with a series of singles, two EPs, and an album under their belt. Oceans has performed at the New Colossus Festival in New York, toured Australia and New Zealand, and is set to embark on a European tour this September. To date, their music has amassed over 630,000 streams on Spotify alone.
With "Get Out" Berlin Tourist introduces itself as a compelling new voice in the world of dark wave, and Tom Lee's fearless approach to music-making ensures that this is just the beginning of an exciting journey. Keep an eye on Berlin Tourist as they continue to push boundaries and explore new sonic territories.