School’s out! You burned your books and pencils and you want to party like it’s 1999! What better way is there to start the summer than without some sun ready tunes? I’m awaiting your response.
If there is anywhere to find the brightest and catchiest music for your pool party this summer, look no further than V Y D’s new EP ‘Retrograde’. Comprised of singer-songwriter Justin Howard and guitarist/electronic mixer Nick Wisse, V Y D developed their sound in Southern California as a result of inspiration found in the surf, freeways, sunshine and 90’s Alternative rock and hip hop music. Now based in Brooklyn, they are also adding club ready Nu-Disco and Deep House to their influences, V Y D delivers a sun-soaked and warm summer flavor to their unique style, which is ever-evident on ‘Retrograde’.
The five songs on this EP are a fine collection of Disclosure-esque Pop House that is equal parts forward thinking and nostalgic, commingled with Howard’s sleek Soul-tinged vocal stylings anoints each track with an infectious feel. Though Electronics are very present on this release, V Y D’s sound is very organic. The guitars, vocals and drum machine on “Sedate Me” all coalesce into a sugary treat better than any you can get on Venice Beach.
This is EP is a great way to get your summer started. “Obviously summer vibes are a theme throughout.” says Wisse about ‘Retrograde’, “The synths, vocal effects, and guitar effects in some places have a ‘watery’ quality to them. We like electro and EDM but also feel often lacks the human touch which is why like to incorporate the guitar a lot and bring a focus back to the songwriting as a critical component instead of trying to fit as many layers as possible into one song just for the sake of making it more complex–Being tasteful and tactful.”
This record most certainly has a human touch on it, each song is as insatiable as the last but the hook is that it doesn’t feel overly processed, it comes natural, very much like the acai bowl you will be munching on in the heat. These guys are bringing a fresh twist to the summer jam, so don’t miss out!
Stream ‘Retrograde’ below, out on Friday (May 29th):