Review: Toro Y Moi at Sound Control

Photo: Toro y Moi

Entering the stage to the opening bars of FKA Twig's 'Two Weeks', Toro Y Moi, AKA Chazwick Bundick was listed with the task of bringing the four day Easter weekend to a close.

In the rafters of Sound Control, the heat of the prior afternoon was turned up considerably in a packed out room that had sold out just hours before, perhaps with people looking to extend their spring bank holiday adventures with his dreamy summer sounds.

Hailing from South Carolina, Bundick has returned with his latest album, What For?, and two years on from 2013’s Anything In Return he's ditched the synth pop and switched to an equally casual, but guitar-led alternative rock sound.  

Early into the band's 16 song set, the funk of 'Still Sound' (above), as featured on Belle and Sebastian's Late Night Tales, provided a familiar reminder of his carefree attitude to producing, while the popular 'High Living' was another highlight as it echoed through the room. 

Between tracks there was a shout out to Piccadilly Records, Brundick confirming what us Mancs already know, that they “know their music”, a homage to one of the only places in town that would even think of stocking one of his records. 

He spent the night to the right of the stage switching between keys or guitar, always facing his ensemble who join him to perform live versions of his songs that are produced by himself. 

Donning his trademark thick rimmed glasses, one part of his act that hasn't evolved, it was surprising to see that he'd ditched the disco influence, but that kept us listeners on our toes. 

Synth Pop, indie rock, chillwave or however you want to pigeonhole it, you'd never say he was a pioneer in one particular genre, but it'd be refreshing to hear him move back to the sounds of Anything in Return.

Head here for more on Toro y Moi.

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