AOTW: Tiberius – “Fish in a Pond”

July 14th, 2023 by Liz Kosik

by Liz Kosik ’25

Album of the Week: Tiberius – “Fish in a Pond”

Released: June 30, 2023

Rate: 8.5/10

RIYL: MJ Lenderman, Pinegrove, Car Seat Headrest, Field Medic, Greg Freeman

Tiberius is the extraordinary creation of Brendan Wright, a musician who hails from Vermont but now calls Boston home. Since dropping their last album, “Lull,” this 26-year-old music producer has been juggling recording sessions between their pad in Allston and the abandoned Sound Museum warehouse. After the release of “Lull,” Wright included members Kevin Polite (bass), Christian Pace (guitar), and Ben Curell (drums) to transfer his individual studio work into a live setting. They’ve become regulars at the nearby 7-Eleven and Dunkin Donuts combo, all while managing a regular job from 9 to 5. It’s been quite the adventure for them, adapting to a DIY community that used to thrive but now emerges from the remains of a post-pandemic world. Wright finds inspiration in these moments and reflects on the uncertainty and uncomfortableness of growing. He speaks about the difficulty of being perceived and finding your place in the world.

“Fish in a Pond” encapsulates the beauty of Wrights’s growth and dives into the ongoing battle of embracing a settled lifestyle while finding joy in its everyday rhythm. Brendan Wright, with a blend of sarcasm and gratitude, reflects on the ups and downs in “Fish in a Pond,” reminding us that life is a journey, not just a final stop.

“Fish in a Pond” is a 7-track setlist, featuring staff favorites such as “Ehrlichiosis”, “Hypoxia”, and “Ruined Lives in Upstate NY.” Tiberius shows off its psychedelic influence while incorporating its own edge. Wrights’s voice oddly resembles that of Alexander O’Connor, lead singer of Rex Orange County but allows enough individuality to make the distinction. Wright has an undeniable passion for his sound as each track provides a poison for our picking. Mentioned songs such as “Ruined Lives in Upstate NY” give that calmer vibe, perfect for late-night drives while “Ehrlichiosis” definitely tunes into the rougher side of psychedelic rock. “Fish in a Pond” showcases Tiberius’ range and the boundaries they are willing to push to capture their vision.

Tiberius does not have any upcoming shows, but some extra support may change that! Check out their webpage for their full discography, merch, and more information. 🙂