Trusting his instincts, Manchester-born Jack Bromwich dropped engineering from his conjoint degree studies at Auckland University a few years ago, to dedicate his focus on gaining a Bachelor of Music. A trail of genre-shifting releases since fully supports that decision. His most recent single, Never Dreamed, was included on NZ On Air Music‘s May NewTracks compilation.

What’s your given name? Where are you from and what instruments do you play?

My name is Jack Bromwich. I’m originally from Pōneke, now based in Tāmaki Makaurau. I play mostly guitar, but I play bass as well, and piano too.

Any other projects that we might we know you from?

I’ve been playing in various bands since high school, but I currently play session guitar for my friends Alex Beattie and Charisma Club.

What’s the background of how Jack Bromwich came to be a recording act?

I first started out recording in my bedroom as a kid and gradually used this as practice for songwriting and producing. Joining bands playing lead guitar in high school, I always desired to write songs and bring them live. This led me to pursue a career in music, studying popular music in Auckland. In doing this, I’ve morphed into both a live and recording act, playing shows across Tāmaki over the past couple of years.

Was there debate settling on using your own name for the project?

Initially, I always wanted to be a solo artist under my own name, but as my process has become more collaborative, I have definitely had thoughts of a name change, but nothing stuck. I think ‘Jack Bromwich’ will be around to stay for some time now though!

How has your music evolved from your earliest songwriting to now?

My process and sound has changed drastically over the past couple of years. Initially, I always felt my music had to be palatable and marketable. This always hid the authenticity of myself in my music and built a wall for this to be hidden behind. I feel a great turning point for me was Junk Fest last year. Seeing the community that surrounds artists being authentic to themselves and making music that hides nothing, was so inspirational and heartwarming to me. It triggered a complete U-turn in my process. No walls. No hiding anymore. It’s led me to be making the music I’m making today.

Aside from this release, what’s been the big highlight to date?

The best moment for me musically was playing a packed out Galatos back in 2023, hearing people singing the words to my song back to me. I think it showed that people do hear what I do, even if this is on a small scale. It was really encouraging to hear how the crowd cheered us on.

What makes Never Dreamed stand out for you as a single choice?

I think Never Dreamed stands out because it’s another single that’s starting to show my new sound. I’m really happy with the sonic landscape of the track, I feel the space is really filled out and sounds really huge! I really think the message in the song is more obvious than some of my other songs as well. I’m glad that the listener won’t get confused in the message, and can find their own interpretation of it in an easier way.

What is the story behind the single?

Never Dreamed comes from experiences of learning to look out for yourself in life. It can often become difficult to stay present in life, especially when things start to get busy. I think this is what the song tries to tap into; staying present in every moment and not letting your reality slip.

What’s your favourite moment, musical or lyrical, of Never Dreamed?

I really like the breakdown at the end of the song. Going into this, I wanted a moment that would translate live really well and be a moment that the audience will remember. This is something I think that we achieved. It’s definitely a highlight in our set!

What would you like listeners to take away from it?

I want the listener to be able to remember to look out for things that are around them. Be sure to notice everything and stay present in every moment. Life is short and it can slip away from us so quickly if we’re not careful.

Who did you record/produce the track with?

The song was recorded at Bilbo’s Clubhouse, up on the North Shore of Tāmaki. I had my mates Alex Beattie and Roman Benson (on drums and bass respectively) helping me track the song live. The process was great, the space we recorded in was very authentic to the DIY process, yet had such a professional sounding outcome as well. I would definitely recommend recording there. One funny story I remember from that was having a real pain with my braces, as I had these on at the time. I ran out of wax for them before recording vocals and had to quickly run and get some before we tracked them. This took some time out of the session, but we managed to get the song done!

Who else is in your team? 

I’m so blessed to have such a rich connection with my crew. My friends Alex Beattie, Roman Benson, Max Hill, Max Harries, Matthew McFadden, and Josh Stewart are always there to support me with demo reviews, or playing live. Basically helping me make what I do a reality. Without them, this project would not be where it is in any capacity.

Are there any other musical endeavours you’re working on that we should keep an eye out for?

I’m looking at releasing a debut project later this year and definitely look to hit the road with this as well.

Can you please name three other local  tunes that would fit well on a playlist alongside your song.

Awning – Benevolent
Salt Water Criminals – Grow
Alex Beattie – Rainfalls

Have any of your previous single releases been included on NewTracks or received NZ On Air funding?

This is my first time featuring on NZOA NewTracks! I have applied a couple of times previously. I always struggled talking about my music. I feel so much emotional effort goes into making it, I never take time to really think about who it’s for, or what I was thinking when making it. I only really know how I feel making my music.

Have you got any advice around the application process for others starting out?

Taking time to write my application and be more present in the process of making this song helped make my application more cohesive. I think starting out, it’s so important to remember to be authentic in everything you do musically. It’s such a crime to yourself and the world to hide behind nonchalance. You’re robbing the world from seeing who you truly are.

Any musical blogs, Youtube channels or podcasts you’re into?

I’ve been super into my mate Joe’s podcast Stage Dive. The work he does really provides a platform for the local scene and highlights artists that sometimes don’t get the recognition that they deserve. Definitely worth giving a listen!

How can we find you on social media?

Instagram
Spotify
Bandcamp

Who did you make the song’s video with?

I made the music video with my band and my mate Joe Wickins, in my back garden. I think the raw aesthetic of the camera quality really adds to the gritty nature of the song. I remember it being an extremely hot day. I think we had to sit in the shade after every shot because we got so overheated!

Any last words?

Thanks heaps NewTracks for your support on the single, the mahi you guys are doing is so important for local music. Also, thanks so much for the love on Never Dreamed, it’s been overwhelmingly lovely. Keep an eye out for new music soon!