27 October 2026 – Nine Perfect Lives Debut With Die as Hello Mary Members Launch a Haunting New Project

Brooklyn musicians Helena Straight and Stella Wave have introduced their new project Nine Perfect Lives with "Die", a debut single released through AD 93. Both musicians are founding members of alternative-rock group Hello Mary, where they spent seven years developing their creative partnership. Nine Perfect Lives represents an opportunity to explore different musical ideas while retaining the connection that originally brought them together.

The project combines experimental art-rock influences with elements of folk songwriting, creating a more intimate environment for their compositions. "Die" emerged during a period when Straight was living in Los Angeles while Wave remained in Brooklyn. The geographical separation created uncertainty about their future collaboration, and the song developed as a response to the emotional complications surrounding that distance.

Straight initially recorded a demo independently before the musicians completed the composition together. The experience helped reinforce their creative relationship and ultimately established the foundation for Nine Perfect Lives. The single is accompanied by a music video directed by Milo Hume.

The duo are also preparing live performances supporting Friko and Lime Garden, with dates scheduled across several American cities. Their upcoming appearances include Durham, Atlanta, Nashville, Columbus and Brooklyn. "Die" introduces an intriguing new direction for musicians already familiar to followers of contemporary American alternative rock. Side projects can sometimes become little more than temporary distractions, but Nine Perfect Lives appears to have emerged from a meaningful creative transition. The title may sound ominous, yet the recording represents the beginning of something new. Apparently the musical equivalent of having nine lives involves successfully maintaining a band while simultaneously discovering another reason to make music. Check out our art-rock and indie coverage.