Affaire releases its debut EP 'Internal Swing' - Out Now

Today is the day! Brussels based duo Affaire is proud to present their first EP called 'Internal Swing'.

According to Michiel Ritzen (vocals, guitar) and Nick Caers (drums, synths) the definition of 'Internal Swing' goes as following: "The bobbing of your head from left to right and its uncontrollable, unstoppable stream of thoughts. At the same time, it serves as an analogy for the idea that the many machines we use—synthesizers, drum machines, effect units—also have a life of their own and a will of their own somewhere deep inside."

The tracks on this EP share a common theme: they were written from a place of introspection and immersion. In other words, from a psychological perspective—focusing on the mind and everything happening within it: thoughts, feelings, motives, and experiences. Not in a dysfunctional, difficult, or negative way, but rather in a lighthearted and humorous manner."

Throughout the whole EP it's clear that lead singer Michiel Ritzen uses his studies psychology as an inspiration. It's also the explanation behind the band's name which is an analogy for a secret or an extramarital desire; 'The Affair'. That's because Michiel has the feeling music should not be his main activity but a hobby at most. In stead he should focus on his job as psychologist, aligned with his degree.

Watch the live version of 'Thoughts and Pleasure' here

Michiel Ritzen is accompanied by Nick Caers on synths and drum machine. Their music can be described as off-beat electronic rock with driving drum machines, a battery of synths, convulsive vocals, and a propelling guitar that merges into a hybrid of twisted energy and overheated nervousness. They deliver a sound that finds itself at the crossroads of what Suicide did in the '80s, the angularity of Talking Heads, and the adventurous spirit of LCD Soundsystem and Soulwax, while still carving their own path.

Internal swing features six tracks that balance on a spectrum of twisted electro and abrasive guitar rock, with lyrics resembling an unceasing stream of consciousness. From introspection and empathy, psychologist Ritzen lightly elaborates on escapism, love, delusion, doubts, and pleasure. Most of the songs were recorded by Ritzen and Caers themselves in their home studio and at Het Depot in Leuven during a residency. For the final touches, they worked closely with Rob Driessen from De Muziekgieterij in Rotterdam, where Affaire is artist in residence. VI.BE recently made a visit to their 'Repetitiekot' (rehearsal room), watch the whole video here.

The band is also proud to announce some upcoming shows in Belgium and in The Netherlands. They will play a show at We Are Open showcase festival in Trix, play at Ancienne Belgique together with Soft Boy and play support for Customs, tickets and info.