One of my favorite musical genres to listen to when living in New England was the soft and simple musings of folk musicians like J. Tillman and Damien Jurado. They seemed to represent the isolation and immensity of the landscape and it remains one of the many things I miss from that area. So when I found the opportunity to listen to Hip Hatchet’s new album, Men Who Share My Name, I was instantly reminded of the place I love so dearly.
Under the moniker, Hip Hatchet, Philippe Bronchtein has been creating delicate folk croonings for a few years now. Inspired by the likes of Leonard Cohen and Nick Drake, Philippe uses these influences as a foundation for his own minimalistic and time sensitive arrangements. His deep vocals meld well with the winter coat of harmonies that cover this album and take the listener to a place of comforting seclusion.
You can purchase Men Who Share My Name here.
This week Philippe Bronchtein himself answers the world famous Kuestionnaire and leaves an unusual answer for question #4.
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1. Could you state your name and what you do?
My name is Philippe Bronchtein and I operate under the moniker of Hip Hatchet. I play lots of instruments and orchestrate my songs along with some friends.
2. How would you describe your sound?
Folk-inspired songs with lots of woodwinds and lyrics that draw from the influence of Townes, Springsteen, and Leonard Cohen.
3. What is your favorite local band?
I just finished 4 years living in VT, and became good friends with a musician named Michael Chorney whose music blows me a way.
4. Any concerts that blew your mind recently?
Nelly was unbelievable (I’m not being ironic. I saw him in Chicago and it was totally awesome)
5. Any non-musical influences you would like to mention?
Merce Cunningham. I do a lot of modern dance and I’ve always been fascinated with his work.
6. If your music was to be the theme of a film/TV show, what would it be?
I don’t know. Maybe something on HBO….
7. What musician/artist would you like to collaborate with for a day?
That’s hard, probably either Johan Johanssen, or J. Tillman…maybe Will Oldham.
8. What is the album you listen to on a cold rainy day?
Bonnie Prince Billy – I see a Darkness or J. Tillman –Minor works
9. List four songs you would listen to on a roadtrip?
Springsteen- Thunder Road, Townes Van Zandt – Don’t Let the sunshine fool ya, Neil Young – Don’t let it bring you down, Fleet Foxes – Blue Ridge Mountains
10. Where do you see yourself in 7 years?
Hopefully Touring a lot, Making records, getting enough sleep, and living somewhere pretty.
11. What is the last book you read?
Mark Statman – Tourist at a Miracle
12. Is image a factor in music or is it a waste of time?
Image is important to get your music to reach lots of people, but I don’t think it’s a huge thing for the music itself.
13. Any embarrassing moments on stage you would like to share?
Not really. I forget my words all the time. I’ve spilled drinks and stuff, but nothing really special.
14. Any favorite tour locations?
Burlington- Radio Bean. Great venue, great audience, great vibes.
15. Lastly, what is your present state of mind?
Exhausted and looking forward to spending some time back up north.
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[mp3] Hip Hatchet – Wild Plant from Men Who Share My Name (2010)
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[mp3] Michael Chorney – Bells and Motors from Wonder (2010)