Vulfpeck: Back Pocket

“Funky Duck” old-school jammers Vulfpeck have made a lighthearted music video for perhaps their cutest song ever: “Back Pocket.” The band’s Theo Katzman and guest vocalist Christine Hucal fondly recall high-stakes elementary school romancing as two young dancers strut their choreographed stuff. The supremely talented band mixes in congas and clarinets for some carefree, good vibes. Catch Vulfpeck at SummerStage in NYC’s Central Park this …

Sleigh Bells: Hyper Dark

While there might be echoes of “Infinity Guitars” in the intro, Sleigh Bells’ new track “Hyper Dark” proves to be a divergence from their regular programming. There’s lush space around Alexis Krauss’ soft and forlorn vocals, while the moody bass line and glittery synths lend the song a bittersweet but almost sinister vibe. In addition to releasing the rowdier single “Rule Number One” last month, …

Suicide: Dream Baby Dream

Alan Vega—solo artist and one half of Suicide—passed away this weekend, aged 76. Vega (born Boruch Alan Bermowitz) and his bandmate Martin Rev influenced countless musicians (most notably Bruce Springsteen) with their minimal and experimental take on punk music. Their sublime song “Dream Baby Dream” (1979) is one of their best known and most ethereal. At the time, their music sounded quite unlike anything else—proving …