Album cover art by RTM!
BATE, hailing from Los Angeles, CA, the alternative indie punk duo is comprised of Nate Filichia and Brett-Bit (Game Or Bust YouTube Channel). While their band name is derived from a combination of the two members’ names, the term “Bate” is also defined as hawks beating their wings against the wind. This colorful symbolism is reflected by their authentically raw music, which invokes imagery of falling, struggling, and ultimately, rising. In addition to their musical partnership, both band members also share a gaming channel on YouTube, under the name of Bate the Band. Their original content includes a spirited mix of video games, music, vlogs, and collaborations.
Nate and Brett have been making music together since age 13, and formed the band Bate by age 14. They released the single Take Me Down in 2014. This seminal debut defined their sound as a blend of folk and punk, and they developed a unique style which was refined with their subsequent releases. In 2015, Bate collaborated with fellow YouTuber and musician DARKOVIKA to create the split album entitled ‘Split Debate’. The concept for this album was derived from the desire to reboot Darkovika’s singer songwriter single ‘Hey Yogscast!’. This concept expanded to include more original music from Bate, having drummer and percussionist Wesley Hall (Groamville, Burning Jet Black, Billie Jack) join in on the action. The final result is a well-rounded fusion of each artist’s unique flavor. The members of Bate have known Darkovika before the collaboration, and they continue to be close both personally and professionally. Darkovika even helped Brett-Bit start up the YouTube channel, Game or Bust.
Bate is a prime example of complementary styles enhancing one another. Their symbiotic synergy is a balanced synthesis of contrasting musical and artistic influences. Each member is an accomplished musician in his own right. Brett-Bit is a solo chiptune artist, and is also the heavy and groovy bassist for an industrial rock group DESPITE LOYALTY. Meanwhile, Nate provides nasty guitar work and vocals in hardcore punk outfit LOCK/JAW. From their musical shenanigans to their video game escapades, they deliver consistently fun and engaging entertainment.
-Chery Lynn