from the 7” single, self-released, 2010While many of those who currently set about re-vamping the varying styles of ‘80s music have mainly chosen to focus on driving synth pop or dark new wave, a handful of others are taking a broader view, incorporating elements found in all sorts of Top 40 fodder from back then (i.e. Phil Collins, Stevie Nicks, Dire Straights, et al.). One of my absolute favorites of the moment that falls into the latter category is L.A.’s own Teen Inc, who manage to integrate a true panoply of ideas within each track they craft; this enigmatic cut plays with all kinds of influences, a little Toto here, some Belinda Carlisle there, maybe some Peter Gabriel or the softer side of Prince for good measure. These guys bring a good name to the over-used concept of “pastiche”, in every sense of the word. If you live on the west coast, you can catch them opening shows for Ariel Pink & Os Mutantes in less than a month, a show which will deliver the goods---trust me! To my knowledge, these cats are still unsigned, but I doubt it will remain that way for long…I certainly hope not anyways, because a full-length LP simply needs to follow.
