Fake Bears Photo Credit: DJ Cabrera
Fake Bears is the musical project of EJ, a multifaceted artist hailing from Valley Village, United States. EJ, the sole member of Fake Bears, is a singer, keytar player, songwriter, and producer. Though it wasn’t present for long, the project started in 2018. But in 2023, EJ formally brought back Fake Bears with the help of pals who never stopped encouraging him. Angels and Airwaves, Mae, Owl City, Chvrches, The Band Camino, LANY, Coldplay, and Carly Rae Jepsen are just a few of the many bands and musicians that has influenced Fake Bears’ sound.
Fake Bears have a unique alt-pop sound that has recently branched out into pop-punk, rock, and emo. This is a result of their broad combination of inspirations. Aside from the studio, EJ works as the bar manager at Studio City’s Tuning Fork, where he routinely puts on live events that draw large, devoted crowds. Fake Bears spends his time tending to his three cats, Carly, Lillie, and Lana, while he’s not writing music or running the bar.
Released on June 11th, 2024, the EP “Fake Bears…but ROCK!!!1!11!!1!!” marks a significant evolution in Fake Bears’ musical style. This EP is a high-energy fusion of Fake Bears’ alt-pop roots and the dynamic intensity of rock, particularly drawing from emo and pop-punk influences. The EP features four tracks: three remixed versions of older songs and one new original track titled “Uninterested.” The recording process took place in two intimate settings—Fake Bears’ home studio, known as The Cat Cave, and co-producer Ian Matthews’ condo.
The collaboration with Ian and background vocalist Sage Saint John adds a rich depth to the EP’s soundscape. “Fake Bears…but ROCK!!!1!11!!1!!” offers listeners a vibrant and emotive musical journey. Every song has a unique sound that blends nostalgic nostalgia with appealing melodies and meaningful lyrics. Pop and rock music lovers should not miss this EP, which showcases Fake Bears’ development as a musician. Dive into this captivating soundscape and experience the unique world of Fake Bears.
Fake Bears…but ROCK!!!1!11!!1!! EP Track List:
Uninterested:
“Uninterested,” the standout track from Fake Bears’ EP “Fake Bears…but Rock!!!1!11!!1!!,” is a magnificent blend of rock and pop, showcasing Fake Bears’ artistic prowess. From the first percussive-synth sounds, I was immediately drawn into the song’s unique energy and groove. The opening, punctuated by the vibration of a phone and a synth-made voice, sets the stage for the magic to unfold. At the 0:12 mark, the rhythmic flow of the drum beat enters, bringing a vibrant pop vibe, perfectly complemented by the deep, resonant bass. This created an ideal backdrop for the emotive and passionate vocals, delivered with precision, grace, and finesse.
As the song progresses, the introduction of soft yet electrifying guitar sounds at 0:25 hints at the rock sensibilities that define the track. By the 0:45 mark, the composition reaches an energetic crescendo, where the harmonization of the initial elements—the rhythmic pop-infused drum beat, the deep bass, the electrifying guitar strings, and the delicate piano—culminates in an intense, midtempo, and self-evolving rhythm. This blend of sounds creates an unmatched groove and energy that is impossible to ignore. Throughout the track, the vocal delivery seamlessly rides the wave of this masterful instrumental revelation, adding depth and emotion to the song.
One of the most captivating moments of “Uninterested” is the instrumental solo at 2:45. The sheer insanity and artistry behind this solo elevate the track to a new level, showcasing Fake Bears’ talent and the meticulous craftsmanship behind the song. This track is not just a piece of music; it’s a dynamic journey through varying intensities and energies, each shift masterfully executed. “Uninterested” is a true work of art, reflecting the evolution of Fake Bears and the profound ability to blend genres into a cohesive, exhilarating experience.
Ascend…but Rock!!!1!11!!1!!:
“Ascend…but Rock!!!1!11!!1!!” from Fake Bears’ EP “Fake Bears…but Rock!!!1!11!!1!!” is a magical rock creation that perfectly blends dynamic progression and an electrifying soundscape. The track opens with synth-piano-like sounds that gracefully lead into a unique drumming pattern, featuring handclapping percussive elements and a heavy bass drum hit. As I listened, the deep bass patterns and Fake Bears’ vocal prowess immediately captured my attention. His vocal dexterity is on full display, conveying the lyrics with impeccable grace and precision. The undertone vocal movements add a unique elegance to the track, enriching its overall texture.
At the 0:32 mark, “Ascend…but Rock!!!1!11!!1!!” undergoes a major transformation, a true moment of revelation where the instrumentation reaches full fruition. The rhythmic pulse of the drum beat, the vibrant dance of electrifying guitar strings, intense bass movements, and piano lacing sounds, combined with female backup vocals, create an exotic and powerful sound. The resulting upbeat and energetic rhythm is both progressive and self-evolving, delivering a profound and mind-blowing experience. As the track progresses, the instrumental movements become more unpredictable, yet they maintain their essence, perfectly balancing between pop and rock sensibilities. This anthemic pattern creates a magnificent and thrilling musical journey.
Fake Bears’ vocal dexterity shines throughout the track, particularly when he utilizes his falsetto to perfection, complemented by the vocal backups. This interplay of sounds and vocals makes “Ascend…but Rock!!!1!11!!1!!” a true masterpiece. The unique and unpredictable instrumental interplay, while still maintaining the track’s core value, is what sets it apart. This song is not only a work of art but also a must-listen, even for those who may not typically enjoy rock music. “Ascend…but Rock!!!1!11!!1!!” is a revelation in modern rock, showcasing Fake Bears’ ability to create an unforgettable and exhilarating musical experience.
The EP “Fake Bears…but ROCK!!!1!11!!1!!” is a high-energy, emotive journey through the highs and lows of my experiences. Each track is a piece of my story, brought to life through meticulous production and heartfelt performances. This project not only revisits my musical roots but also showcases my growth as an artist and individual. For those who enjoy pop and rock mixed with extremely personal stories, this is a must-listen. I want to use the power of music to emotionally connect with listeners through this EP, providing both comfort and excitement.
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