Neon Indian- "VEGA INTL. Night School"

Neon Indian, otherwise known as its charismatic frontman/multi-instrumentalist/mastermind Alan Palomo- broke onto the independent electronic scene in the mid 2000's with a compelling debut, "Psychic Chasms".  Blending retro synth patches and analog keyboards by the truckload, the band executes a confident flair for throwback-futurism with modern hook writing with the strength of a group that's toured for years.  Rapidly following up their debut with effortless pinache with "Era Extraña" merely a year later, Neon Indian snuck into the folds of critical darlings without breaking a sweat.

While not exactly breaking formula, "VEGA INTL. Night School" finds Neon Indian wading into the waters of pop accessibility without reservation.  The strengths of the band are on full display- almost heightened so, bringing the hooks and synth waves originally buried for texture, are at the forefront as a punctuating force for the undeniably catchy songwriting.  The borderline-bubblegum approach is what separates this latest offering from its predecessors- this is a close cousin to a perfect Saturday night party album.

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BOOTS- "Aquaria"

Boots, or Jordan Asher behind closed doors, has had an inspired introduction among the troupes of producers-turned-musicians.  Being the head cook in the kitchen behind a good share of Beyonce's last album, as well as collaborations with FKA Twigs and Run The Jewels, Asher's resume is filled with promise for his solo effort.  Which makes his debut solo-outting, "Aquaria", such a curious outing. 

Boasting some (expected) dynamic production, Asher balances complicated beat production and sparse synths as the underlying thread of an often-indecisive sing-speak lyrical delivery.  The results are mixed at times, but they work on multiple levels; controlled chaos pushing melodic undercurrents throughout.  There's no denying his pop roots, he shines brightest when his glossy production takes center stage- his songcrafting could easily fit among the Top 40 charts with an unabashed adherence to hooks.  If he continues exploring the mesh of his frenetic instrumentation with his cool & collected delivery, there's a definite mainstream crossover on the horizon.

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