In a music industry often defined by geographic borders and local scenes, INTERCONTINEN7AL stands as a groundbreaking exception. Emerging from a sonic experiment during the global COVID-19 pandemic, the band has achieved what few could even dream of: recording and releasing music from all seven continents. Their latest single, “Apothecary,” from their album INTERCONTINEN7AL, Vol. 5, encapsulates the spirit of international collaboration, blending the nostalgic sounds of 90s alternative rock with modern influences, all while being created by artists from around the globe.
INTERCONTINEN7AL was born out of necessity during the early days of the pandemic in March 2020. When lockdowns halted live performances and traditional band practices, members of the Columbia, Maryland-based band Toast—Matt Smith, Jamie Miller, Ben Gaither, Emily Betz, and guest Becca Drayer—began exploring virtual collaboration. Leveraging the capabilities of the BandLab platform, the group quickly realized the potential to not only continue making music but to expand their creative network across the world.
Initially, the band members shared ideas and tracks among themselves, but they soon tapped into the public community on BandLab. By making their music “forkable” and inviting global contributions, they began a journey that would ultimately lead to the creation of INTERCONTINEN7AL. With a vision inspired by the Foo Fighters’ Sonic Highways project, which featured recordings in multiple US cities, INTERCONTINEN7AL aimed even higher—collaborating with musicians from every continent.
“Apothecary,” a standout track from Volume 5, exemplifies the band’s commitment to global collaboration and diverse influences. The song features the talents of American musicians Matt Smith on guitars and synth, Alex Burke on bass, and UK vocalist Kelly Wandless, whose haunting voice adds depth and emotion to the track.
Drawing heavily on the 90s alternative rock scene, “Apothecary” evokes the era’s signature sound—a mix of grunge, post-punk, and melodic rock. The result is a track that feels both nostalgic and innovative, paying homage to the past while pushing the boundaries of contemporary music. The song’s layered instrumentation and Wandless’s compelling vocals create a soundscape that is at once familiar and fresh, appealing to fans of both classic and modern rock.
INTERCONTINEN7AL’s journey to record music on all seven continents is nothing short of extraordinary. Starting with the release of their debut album, the band has consistently expanded its global reach. Their unique method involves not just remote collaboration but the active recruitment of musicians from far-flung locations, including Antarctica. The band’s commitment to this concept has resulted in four songs recorded across all seven continents: “Manor Hill,” “Puerto Aisen,” “Night Shift,” and “The Chamber.”
For “Apothecary,” the band continued this tradition, bringing together a mix of old and new collaborators to create a track that is emblematic of their international ethos. The song is part of an album that spans a wide range of genres, including alternative and hard rock, metal, folk, jazz, and even bluegrass. This diversity reflects the varied backgrounds of the musicians involved and the band’s willingness to explore new sounds and ideas.
Beyond their musical achievements, INTERCONTINEN7AL is also dedicated to making a positive impact on the world. All proceeds from their albums, including Volume 5, are donated to charity. For their latest release, the band has chosen to support Doctors Without Borders, a global humanitarian organization that provides medical care in conflict zones and areas affected by natural disasters. This commitment to philanthropy is a core part of the band’s identity, further underscoring their global perspective and desire to use their music for good.
With the release of Volume 5, INTERCONTINEN7AL has firmly established itself as a pioneering force in the music industry. The band’s innovative approach to collaboration and their ability to create music that transcends borders and genres sets them apart in a crowded field.
As they continue to evolve, INTERCONTINEN7AL is already looking ahead to their next project, *Volume 6*, which is slated for release in the winter of 2025. The band remains committed to pushing the boundaries of what is possible in music, both in terms of sound and the way it is created.
“Apothecary” is more than just a song—it’s a testament to the power of music to bring people together, no matter the distance. INTERCONTINEN7AL’s ability to fuse diverse influences and collaborate across continents is a reminder of the unifying power of art. As they continue to explore new sonic territories, INTERCONTINEN7AL is not only creating great music but also building a global community, one track at a time.
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