“In Chinese families, every day revolves around mealtime,” says Anna Tong, who spent much of early childhood in Beijing. “Food is an extremely important part of the culture. Typically, when a meal is cooked and ready to eat, moms will yell, ‘Chi fan le,’ which translates to, ‘It’s time to eat.’”
Raised in a strict household focused on academics and classical piano, Tong eventually settled with her family in Spokane, Wash., where she met future husband Bryce Barsten in high school. Barsten grew up on a llama farm in Washington state, later playing in a string of folk and rock outfits before teaming up with his wife for Chinese American Bear. Their creative partnership began as pandemic lark, with Tong helping her spouse work through a few ideas and learn a bit of Chinese in the process.
By 2022, the Seattle-based duo had released its self-titled debut. Initially signing to a label in China, Chinese American Bear moved to the London-based Moshi Moshi imprint for 2024’s Wah!!!. Childlike in spirit and pristine in craft, the music reflects an all-ages whirlpool of influences, from the B-52’s and Flaming Lips to the Beach Boys, Bee Gees and Teletubbies. Meanwhile, their international fanbase continues to grow.
Though she spoke Chinese at home growing up, Tong used to be reluctant to do the same in public.
“We’ve heard from so many fans that hearing me sing in Chinese has made them feel proud to speak it for the first time,” says Tong. “And every Chinese kid knows that moms hate it when you’re late to the meal table—so you better run to the table the first time ‘chi fan le’ is yelled.”
We’re proud to premiere Chinese American Bear’s “Mama.” It’s off Dim Sum & Then Some, due May 8 via Moshi Moshi.
—Hobart Rowland
