monkeybars – “New Face”

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monkeybars is the captivating solo project of Brooklyn-based Eli Aleinikoff, who melds his formal saxophone training with a feeling for contemplative pop songwriting. The jazz-fueled soundscapes and melodic direction produces a concoction reminiscent of Talk Talk, especially as the sax hits in full force around the 02:30 mark. The track comes via the project’s debut EP Acrobats, which “explores the complexities that lie under the surface of a single moment.” “New Face” is a great introduction to the project, showcasing a seamlessly developing track that swirls with funky guitar licks, atmospheric synths, and hypnotic vocal presence. Check out the EP’s other two tracks below:

Regarding the track, the artist says the following: “Miles’s Tutu was a reference point for this one; some of these synth sounds were probably more LCD inspired than I’d care to admit; low sound on the chorus is trombone doubling the bass; this one feels the darkest / moodiest of the three (?); “no the damages don’t last long where they stem” is a lie (!); I think it’s kind of about alienation, vaguely…”

“New Face” and other memorable tracks from this month can also be streamed on the updating Obscure Sound’s ‘Best of September 2019’ Spotify playlist.

Mike Mineo

I'm the founder/editor of Obscure Sound, which was formed in 2006. Previously, I wrote for PopMatters and Stylus Magazine.

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