The dynamic duo: GEMINI WOLF

Described as psychadeltronic, Gemini Wolf is the moniker of Philadelphia duo Michael McDermott and Megan Cauley, or Pandar and Mikronesia (if you’re nasty). The two have been working together for years but have hit their stride with their second album Synchronized Eyes. The 10 track effort refuses to sit still as it bounces from afro-pop horns, grooving bass lines, painfully catchy vocal hooks, and layers upon layers of electronic blips and blaps. The end result is one of the best albums of 2009.

I’ve heard endless Animal Collective comparisons to these two and they are never truer than on the opening track “Sudseyfuss.” Twinkling synthesizers and a steady thumping kick drum lead into the bizarrely fantastic chorus “All I know, you know, I know, you know.” The track’s individual components writhe and wiggle distinctively almost to the point that the listener forgets they are listening to only one song.

The electronic foundations are more evident on “Disappear” and “Vibe On.” An infectious Hot Chip like, buzzing, whirring, ticking, and clicking adds to Megan’s innocent vocals looping through.

Smack dab in the middle of the album sits “Sugar.” An old school 80’s funk vibe saunters along as tribal drums and horn arrangements pop in from time to time, if only just to say hello. This song is not only a perfect example of the varied styles and influences, but the wide range of their supporting cast. Members of SHOT x SHOT, Normal Love and the West Philadelphia Orchestra help decorate this already dynamic record.

There is a childlike playfulness to Gemini Wolf’s Synchronized Eyes and it embodies my hope for the future of the Philadelphia music scene.

myspace.com/geminiwolf

About Adam Thomas

Adam is a cartoon. He likes to travel, write children's poetry, and listen to music whenever he is awake. And although he does not know it, sometimes when he sleeps.