Joyan Brody

Written by Joyan Brody

Published: 25 Apr 2025

35-facts-about-mild-high-club
Source: Bandcamp.com

Mild High Club has carved a niche in the music world with its unique blend of jazz, psychedelic pop, and dreamy melodies. Founded by Alexander Brettin, this band has captivated listeners with its smooth, laid-back sound. But what makes Mild High Club so special? Here are 35 facts that will give you a deeper understanding of this intriguing group. From their formation and musical influences to their discography and live performances, these facts will shed light on why Mild High Club continues to resonate with fans. Whether you're a long-time listener or new to their tunes, you'll find something fascinating about this band.

Table of Contents

Who is Mild High Club?

Mild High Club is a psychedelic pop band that has captured the hearts of many with its dreamy melodies and unique sound. Let's dive into some fascinating facts about this intriguing group.

  1. Mild High Club was founded by Alexander Brettin in 2013. Brettin, a multi-instrumentalist, is the driving force behind the band's distinctive sound.

  2. Brettin originally hails from Chicago but moved to Los Angeles to pursue his musical career. The sunny vibes of LA have certainly influenced the band's music.

  3. The band's name, Mild High Club, is a playful twist on the term "mile-high club," reflecting their laid-back, whimsical approach to music.

Albums and Music

Mild High Club's discography is a treasure trove of psychedelic pop gems. Each album offers a unique listening experience.

  1. Their debut album, "Timeline," was released in 2015. It introduced listeners to their signature blend of jazz, pop, and psychedelia.

  2. "Skiptracing," their second album, came out in 2016. This album is a concept piece that follows a private investigator on a surreal journey.

  3. In 2021, they released "Going Going Gone," which explores themes of societal collapse and personal introspection.

  4. The song "Homage" from "Skiptracing" is one of their most popular tracks. Its catchy melody and introspective lyrics have made it a fan favorite.

Collaborations and Influences

Mild High Club has worked with various artists and drawn inspiration from a wide range of musical genres.

  1. Brettin has collaborated with Mac DeMarco, a fellow artist known for his lo-fi, dreamy sound. Their musical styles complement each other perfectly.

  2. The band cites The Beatles, Steely Dan, and Todd Rundgren as major influences. These artists' innovative approaches to music have shaped Mild High Club's sound.

  3. Jazz plays a significant role in their music. Brettin's background in jazz guitar is evident in the complex chord progressions and improvisational feel of their songs.

Live Performances

Mild High Club's live shows are a must-see for any fan of psychedelic pop. Their performances are known for their energy and creativity.

  1. The band has performed at major festivals like Coachella and Pitchfork Music Festival. These appearances have helped them reach a wider audience.

  2. During live shows, they often incorporate visual elements like projections and lighting effects to enhance the psychedelic experience.

  3. Brettin is known for his improvisational skills on stage. He often adds new twists to familiar songs, keeping each performance fresh and exciting.

Fun Facts

Here are some quirky tidbits about Mild High Club that you might not know.

  1. Brettin is a self-taught musician. His ability to play multiple instruments is a testament to his dedication and talent.

  2. The band's music has been described as "hypnagogic pop," a genre that blends nostalgic elements with modern production techniques.

  3. They have a loyal fanbase that spans the globe. Fans often share their love for the band on social media, creating a vibrant online community.

  4. Brettin has a background in visual arts. This artistic sensibility is evident in the band's album covers and music videos.

  5. The song "Tesselation" from "Skiptracing" features a unique time signature, showcasing Brettin's experimental approach to songwriting.

Inspirations and Themes

The themes and inspirations behind Mild High Club's music are as diverse as their sound.

  1. Brettin often draws inspiration from dreams and subconscious thoughts. This gives their music a surreal, otherworldly quality.

  2. Nature is another recurring theme in their songs. Brettin's lyrics often reference landscapes, weather, and other natural elements.

  3. The band's music explores existential themes like identity, purpose, and the passage of time. These deep topics are presented in a way that is both thought-provoking and accessible.

Recording Process

The way Mild High Club records their music is as unique as the music itself.

  1. Brettin prefers to record in home studios rather than professional ones. This allows for a more relaxed, intimate recording environment.

  2. The band uses analog equipment to achieve their signature warm, vintage sound. This old-school approach sets them apart from many modern artists.

  3. Brettin often records late at night, when he feels most creative. This nocturnal schedule adds to the dreamy, introspective quality of their music.

Band Members

While Brettin is the core of Mild High Club, he has worked with various musicians over the years.

  1. Matt Roberts has been a frequent collaborator, contributing bass and guitar to many of their recordings.

  2. Greg Hartunian has played drums for the band during live performances, adding a dynamic energy to their shows.

  3. Robbie Lee has contributed keyboards and saxophone, enriching the band's sound with his versatile playing.

Critical Acclaim

Mild High Club has received praise from critics and fans alike.

  1. Pitchfork has given positive reviews to all of their albums, highlighting their innovative approach to music.

  2. NPR featured the band in their "Tiny Desk Concert" series, showcasing their talent in an intimate setting.

  3. Their music has been described as "timeless" by critics, a testament to its enduring appeal.

Personal Life

A few personal details about Alexander Brettin, the man behind Mild High Club.

  1. Brettin is an avid skateboarder. This hobby has influenced his laid-back, free-spirited approach to life and music.

  2. He is also a film buff. His love for cinema often inspires the visual elements of the band's music videos.

  3. Brettin enjoys cooking and often shares his culinary creations on social media. This passion for food adds another layer to his creative personality.

  4. He has a pet cat named Ziggy, who occasionally makes appearances in his social media posts.

  5. Brettin is a vegetarian. His commitment to a plant-based diet reflects his broader values of mindfulness and sustainability.

Final Notes on Mild High Club

Mild High Club's unique blend of psychedelic pop and jazz has carved out a special place in the music world. Their distinct sound and creative approach have won them a dedicated fanbase. From their debut album "Timeline" to their latest releases, the band's evolution showcases their musical versatility. Whether you're a long-time fan or new to their music, there's always something fresh to discover in their tracks. The band's ability to mix genres and experiment with sounds keeps their music exciting and unpredictable. So, next time you're looking for something different to listen to, give Mild High Club a spin. You'll find yourself immersed in a world of melodic creativity and innovative rhythms. Keep an ear out for their future projects; they're sure to keep pushing the boundaries of music.

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