Review: Les Sins - Michael
By Sammi Nelson, Blogs Editor
[Carpark; 2014]
Rating: 6.5/10
Key Tracks: “Why,” “Bother,” “Past”
Under the alternative musical pseudonym Les Sins, Chaz Bundick, better known as the artist Toro y Moi, recently released his newest album Michael.
While the album features characteristic traits of Bundick’s euphoric style, such as his usage of synth and catchy loops, the music is significantly more energetic and dancey. This difference in style compared to Bundick’s work as Toro y Moi explains why Michael is under Bundick’s side project’s name, Les Sins.
As both a producer and a musician, Bundick has made a name--or rather names--in the world of electronic music. As Les Sins, Bundick is obviously experimenting with his abilities and his techniques in style production and quality; although it struggles to compete with his work as Toro y Moi, it proves to be promising.
As Toro y Moi, Bundick created a blend of both soothing tones and catchy beats that could mellow out a room within seconds. There are even some songs that channel some energy through the listener, although not nearly as enough energy as hype dance tunes would.
Les Sins leans toward the opposite side of the scale. The majority of Michael’s songs possess high amounts of energy while still maintaining Bundick’s relaxed vibe.
The track “Why” is incredibly infectious and bounces with the listener at an easy pace. The vocals, provided by Nate Salman, are delicate and complement the track well.
On “Bother,” Bundick features elements of dance, hip-hop and high doses of electronica. While the track has its highlights, such as the minor tone it takes at the end that gives it a delightful edge, there are moments where the song sounds vaguely like a Daft Punk tribute. Although that’s certainly not a slap, the technique isn’t unique or different.
“Bother” has a bit of an edge, but “Past” takes the word and twists it to create a sound that is outright warped. The piano tones at the beginning combined with the synthetic beats create an anxious sound that develops into heavy drones that buzz and whir.
The song’s edge is sharpened with the implementation of the vocals. The line “I’m not even sure if I want you in my life” predominantly sticks out and remains with the listener throughout the song.
Despite some setbacks, Bundick’s experimentation with music continues to evolve and captivate listeners with his illustriously chill thrills and mellow vibes. Michael shows much promise as well as need for improvement with any future products Bundick creates as Les Sins.
