DEAFKID

Even if the music of Deafkid isn’t familiar to you, the chances are the faces are. Prior to forming Deafkid, producing duo Christopher Lockington and Florian Sauvaire worked with experimental hip hop artist Ghostpoet, aiding with additional production on his Mercury Prize nominated album ‘Peanut Butter Blues And Melancholy Jam.’ The duo also formed part of his live band, where they brought supple rhythms and obtuse electronics to the Ghostpoet party.

But that was then, and Deafkid is now. Launched last year, Deafkid sees the duo blending elements of electronica, experimental and pop to great effect. Just like on the whirlwind that is ‘Vigilante’, the latest track unveiled by the two-piece.

It blips and whirrs into action before bubbling electronics and funky bass lines, almost reminiscent – in the best possible way – of Kenny Loggins’ Danger Zone, bring it to life, as kinetic drums begin to form the backbone of the track. Those kinetic drums never let up throughout – constantly shifting, twisting and battling for space as some beautifully intricate, rippling guitar work and tropical vocals weave their way around the playful beat. With so much going on, it’s hard to believe that Vigilante clocks in at just under three minutes, but that’s the beauty of this track – it’s packed with ideas, but never feels overwhelming.

Words by George Shaw

Tip courtesy of Simon Pursehouse from Sentric Music