Hip Hatchet

Hip Hatchet is the primary musical vehicle for Philippe Bronchtein, a multi-instrumentalist whose work bridges the gap between traditional Appalachian folk and modern chamber-pop. Emerging from the Portland, Oregon scene in the late 2000s, Bronchtein's sound is defined by his nomadic history, having lived across Vermont, Montreal, and New Jersey.

This transience informs a lyrical preoccupation with the concept of 'home' and the emotional toll of the road. Musically, Hip Hatchet is distinguished by Bronchtein's baritone vocals and his ability to integrate jazz-influenced piano and complex vocal harmonies into a folk framework. His 2015 album, 'Hold You Like A Harness', represents the peak of this 'carefully-orchestrated' aesthetic, receiving critical praise for its lyrical wit and sincerity. While often categorized as Alt-country or Americana, the project maintains a distinct indie-folk edge through its intimate production and narrative depth, positioning Bronchtein as a contemporary peer to artists like The Tallest Man on Earth or Hiss Golden Messenger.