Modular

Os Modulantes

“… And finally, a technique that has gained in popularity along with Pitchfork - the somewhat sarcastic, largely unrelated post that somehow connects to the band in question. Like this post about Buenos Aires' Modular, which will utilize all of the techniques mentioned (25% done!) but otherwise has nothing to do with anything above. Except that cool throwback band pic. What the hell, here's another…”

Modular is an Argentinian Moog-loving duo who take notes from two main sources: 60s psychedelic pop and 90s lounge. To be more specific, they sound like a mix between continent-mates Os Mutantes and Stereolab. One of their finer tracks, 'Picnic en el Arco Iris,' encapsulates their sound in one brilliant 3:00 upbeat lounge gem. It begins with a steady, relaxed percussion section that loses itself within 70s 'space age' sound effects and a cheesy horn-n-strings section reminiscent of The High Llamas. Only once Mariana's balmy vocals kick in do things really pull together however, completing the self-described 'retrofuturistic' sound. Although this strange adjective seems contrived, it fits rather well, as does the rest of their description section. Read on...(from their myspace via Babel Fish):

In the year 2000 was formed Modular, name taken from the mythical analogical synthesizer Moog Modular (of similar appearance to a phone switch crossed by kilometers of cables that it allows to experience infinite possibilities of electronic sounds of the space age) that at the end of the years 60´y principles of the 70´ originated what was called "Moog Records" or disks of "Moog Music". Landscapes of retrofuturistic and fantastic spirit are perceived sprinkled with kitsch touches. They recapture the mixture of space age references with nostalgic sounds of the sixties, psychedelic pop, easy listening, 60´ and 70´ soundtracks, grooving bossa lounge, orchestral pop, sunshine pop and electronic vintage among other styles. To recreate that sound they mix vintage and analogical instruments with digital technology ; they use recording and orchestration techniques used in the sixties. At the moment they are playing live in different festivals, clubs in the city of Buenos Aires (Argentina).

So, once you get past the fact that (at times) Modular sounds a bit like the soundtrack to The Sims, they're an interesting amalgam of styles that comes off entertaining and a bit kitschy, all while your staying pleasant enough for your mom to enjoy. Definitely worth a look if you like Stereolab, the aforementioned High Llamas, Os Mutantes, Dukes of Stratosphear, etc.

 

 

Modular [Quick before it melts]
picture: Archivo Elefant

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