Linear Drift: A Sonic Journey by Crane Brothers

When we set out to create our latest collection, we envisioned more than just garments—we aspired to craft an immersive experience that encapsulates the essence of our tailoring. To bring this vision to life, we approached James and Oliver of CAY with a unique proposition: to compose original music that resonates with the textures, moods, and craftsmanship of our collection.

Our collaboration began with a simple image—a photograph of a rock captured by photographer Meighan Ellis. Its raw, unpolished surface mirrored the tactile qualities we cherish in our fabrics. This image became a metaphor for our collection: rugged yet refined, natural yet meticulously crafted.

We were keen to avoid the conventional musical tropes often associated with menswear—soft piano melodies or atmospheric choral arrangements. Instead, we drew inspiration from the Dunedin Sound, characterized by jangly guitars, lo-fi textures, and unfiltered energy—qualities that resonate with our aesthetic. This choice wasn't arbitrary; over the past 25 years, we've collaborated on shows and campaigns with Flying Nun bands and artists like Shayne Carter, making the sonic reference both authentic and deeply personal.

James and Oliver embraced this direction wholeheartedly. They ventured into our workroom, capturing the ambient sounds of sewing machines, the hiss of steam irons, and the rhythmic snipping of scissors. These industrial noises were not merely background; they became integral elements woven into the fabric of the compositions.

The resulting sonic journey, titled Linear Drift, navigates between structure and stillness—drawing on the texture and tone of 1980s New Zealand music, where rhythm is subtle, and atmosphere leads. It reflects our collection's character—textured, organic, and imbued with a natural beauty. It's an auditory experience that parallels the tactile quality of our garments, offering listeners an immersive insight into the world of Crane Brothers.

The Journey Through Linear Drift

First Fold
Morning in the workroom. Soft light on cloth, the hum of the city just beginning. A quiet entry into form and rhythm.

Channel
A structured drift—chalk marks, scissors, low static. Repetition, with small variations. Intent held loosely.

Line Down
The day recedes. Threads cut, machines stilled, harbour sounds in the distance. A closing note that feels open-ended.

This collaboration with CAY has been a testament to the power of interdisciplinary creativity, where fashion and music converge to tell a cohesive story. CAY is a studio centered around audio—capturing the live, composed, and collected. Their approach emphasises subtlety and atmosphere, making them an ideal partner for projects that value texture, tone, and a sense of place.

Experience Linear Drift on Spotify and immerse yourself in the harmonious blend of sound and style that defines our latest collection—a sonic trademark that will continue to evolve with our brand's journey.

Artwork by Liam Ooi of Present Tense Studio
Photo Credit Meighan Ellis

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