If Boo Boo is a sonic representation of what it’s like to be famous, then it seems that living the high life is not nearly as glamorous as we’re often led to believe. In this album, Toro y Moi (AKA Chazwick Bradley Bundick) depicts his identity crisis as a result of fame in a collection of melodies that are poignant and melancholic.
Like Toro y Moi’s past work, a lot of this album feels otherworldly. There are times when you feel like you’re in a modern art installation, as Bundick plays with the interactions between space and sound. ‘Embarcadero’ is a beautiful example of how a song’s pace need not be rushed to remain interesting.
Bundick has a knack for producing catchy hooks to anchor the more intricate elements of his compositions. For instance, ‘Pavement’ has a dominant, moody melody with beautiful iterations that float around it. ‘Mirage’ and ‘Girl Like You’ easily capture your attention with their playful feel.
But other tracks reveal a deep sense of loneliness and confusion. ‘Windows’ draws on hip hop influences, using a dark, repetitive beat to give a sense of being trapped. ‘Inside My Head’ continues this feeling of anxiety with an erratic bass line.
Boo Boo is an interesting exploration into the dark side of fame – just don’t expect to come out of a listen bursting with energy.
Photo: Andrew Paynter
Boo Boo is out Friday July 7 through Mistletone/Inertia.
