A gorgeous new single from Pterocat, “Anti” is propelled by ethereal harmonic layers and dreamy guitar work, resulting in a lovely melding of dream-pop, art pop, and psychedelia. Formed by duo Thaïs Dahas and Colby Granger following their 2016 move from Rio de Janeiro to Atlanta, the project channels a rich cross-cultural dynamic. Written “as a response to stifling perfectionism in the music/artistic creation process,” “Anti” arrives ahead of their upcoming album Slow Blink, out this fall.
The mesmerizing singing from Dahas and Granger is delivered in a mix of English and Portuguese, shifting between rhythmic commands like “redo, retouch, repeat” and more emotional clarity. Specifically, the “not good enough” refrains poignantly capture that universal internal judgment that so often halts the creative process. Dahas’ voice assumes the lead throughout, dynamic in its shift between steady dreaminess and expressive allure, evident especially when joined by Granger in the “not good enough” haunts.
Musically, the evolution from sparse, late-night bass tones into jangly guitar spaciousness and steady rhythms showcases a climactic feeling from the get-go. Especially memorable guitar work shines as the final minute comes into view, where twangy guitar fragments interplay with moody bass for an absorbing allure; there, Dahas’ wordless, harmonious phrasing echoes alongside that guitar/bass synergy for a spine-tingling impact, before resolving into a wholly satiating conclusion. “Anti” is a fantastic track from Pterocat, leaving us firmly anticipating their upcoming full-length.
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This and other tracks featured this month can be streamed on the updating Obscure Sound’s ‘Emerging Singles’ Spotify playlist.
