PVRIS’ Brian MacDonald has teamed up with childhood friend Sam Carpenter to form sugarpine, a new indie and alternative rock duo who have released their debut single, ‘LEAVES’, alongside an accompanying visualiser.
The pair, who grew up together in New Hampshire, have known each other since sixth grade. From school projects and skateboarding to spending time in the forests surrounding their hometown, their shared upbringing has played a major role in shaping the new project.
Their debut single takes inspiration from those experiences, exploring the nostalgia of growing up somewhere familiar and the complicated feelings that come with either leaving home or choosing to stay.
Speaking about the track, the duo explained: “‘LEAVES’ was the first song and creative idea that we had as a duo. The song explores the concepts of moving through the world of New Hampshire, the state where we were raised, and what it’s like to either stay or go.”
They also reflected on a familiar saying in New England that those who leave will eventually find their way back, something they say has followed them throughout their lives.
Accompanying the release is a visualiser made from real home movie footage, featuring moments from MacDonald and Carpenter’s childhood and offering a glimpse into the friendship behind the band.