In the nebulous expanse of today's indie music scene, See Jazz emerges as the brainchild of Aaron Pfannebecker, a Brooklyn-based recording project that has just unveiled its latest sonic offering, "1982," accompanied by a mesmerizing video crafted by Steven Levine. This unveiling provides a glimpse into the textured dreamscape that defines their debut album, provocatively titled “Is This Anything?”
"1982" weaves ethereal pop melodies with suspended chords, creating an atmosphere akin to great 80's shoegaze. The track features Elizabeth Fraser-inspired modulating vocals, a post-punk drive, and a thematic depth that explores the intricacies of perspective formation. Pfannebecker paints it as a keeper—a sonic journey grappling with the challenge of breaking free from a particular frame of mind.
With Zara Bode on vocals and Adam Langellotti (of Kurt Vile and the Violators) on bass, See Jazz embraces drum machines and synthesizers as collaborators in crafting warped bedroom collage pop guitars and hooky vocals, forming music tailored for outsiders and inspired by an entirely unique world. (Side note Zara Bode is the granddaughter of legendary illustrator Vaughn Bode, author of Cheech Wizard and other classic 70's comic art books)
The genesis of "Is This Anything?" unfolded in the heart of NYC and Western Massachusetts, navigating the pre and post-pandemic landscape. Lyrically, See Jazz delves into the complexities of contemporary America and the sensation of being adrift within it, channeling sounds reminiscent of Nick Nicely, New Order, and The The.
Boasting talents like Langellotti and Jed Smith (My Teenage Stride, Jeanines), the album is a mosaic of melodies enticing ears to dance and encouraging the forging of new connections. Pfannebecker reflects on the creative process, sharing, "I couldn't create anything during that time. I experienced a personal loss, and the world felt chaotic. I retreated into a cocoon."
See Jazz emerges as a remedy for those residing on the outskirts of contemporary popularity contests, with "Is This Anything?" serving as an auditory journey through a realm where textures entwine with melodies, and the unconventional takes center stage. As the album tracklist unfolds, from the rhythmic hymns of "Hymn" to the enigmatic allure of "Weird September," "Is This Anything?" promises an exploration of sonic landscapes transcending the ordinary. In the grand tradition of music that defies categorization, See Jazz emerges as a guiding light for those who revel in the unconventional, urging listeners to hit play and spark a revolution within their minds.
https://seejazz.bandcamp.com/album/is-this-anything