JPEG 2000, OK Naledi, Stucco, and Lovely Company
JPEG 2000 – Hot News
From Vancouver-based electronic duo JPEG 2000 is Hot News, their newest EP. A delightful mix of disco and techno with nostalgic undertones, this release captures the aesthetic of an old Windows 98 PC through sound. Similar to the vibe of vintage 3D renders, this album brings the past to the modern day with energetic moxie.
OK Naledi – “GO SLOW”
This debut single from Afro-House music project OK Naledi comes in strong with heartfelt emotion and warm melodies. This lyrically dense track speaks beautiful words of a romance lost and a reimagining of what could have been, all while wrapped in a catchy chorus and extraordinary instrumentation.
Stucco – “Business Inc.”
Calgary post-punk band Stucco delivers their single, the badass “Business Inc.” With misanthropic lyrical content, overdriven strings, a Talking Heads-esque vocal delivery, and tight drums, Stucco immediately established themselves as a punk powerhouse with a poetic approach to apathy and a desire to kick the ass of your ears.
Lovely Company – Bangers & Mash
Here’s a personal favorite – Vancouver’s Lovely Company. This band is prolific, groovy, and always a joy to have penetrating my eardrums. Both songs are instrumental jams, with the A-side “Bangers” taking a jazzy approach while the B-side “Mash” divulges into something much heavier. Over the singles 13 minute runtime you’ll find yourself entranced in their psychedelic tones.
- Brandon Kruze