by      

Chase Leonard

Brooklyn-based brother duo Abner and Harper James (aka Eighty Ninety) are back with new music.

The pair is releasing a new song called "Happier" on Friday, but they're giving Variance an early listen of the delicate track, which is the first of a series of new songs they recorded with Grammy-nominated producer Gian Stone, whose past collaborations include work with Justin Bieber, Ariana Grande, Dua Lipa and more.

The new song has dual meaning and inspiration, reflective of being able to wish someone well even if it means having to let go, but its release is also partly inspired by the current moment in time, with all the social distancing and isolation.

"We all want the best for the people we love," the duo says. "Sometimes, that means letting each other go. 'Happier' is about wanting to hold on for just a little bit longer."

They add: "We chose 'Happier' because its themes of loneliness and loss—but also love and hope—resonate with our feelings about life now. There are so many people we love and miss that we can't be with, and a lot of late night calls to try and bridge that distance."

Listen to "Happier" below.