Sylvan Esso, the acclaimed electro-pop duo of Amelia Meath and Nick Sanborn, have always defied easy categorization. Their journey from the understated charm of their self-titled debut in 2014 to the glitchier soundscapes of No Rules Sandy has been a testament to their relentless artistic evolution. Now, with their latest offering, Ow ∞, they invite listeners into perhaps their boldest reinvention yet – a nostalgic sonic tapestry that still pulses with their signature bleeps and bloops.
But beyond the music, what truly makes Sylvan Esso tick? As they celebrate the release of Ow ∞, we sat down with Meath and Sanborn for a candid chat, revealing everything from their indispensable tools to their surprisingly strong opinions on dairy. Yes, Sylvan Esso genuinely believes you should splurge on good-quality yogurt – a quirky insight that perfectly encapsulates their unique blend of grounded practicality and whimsical charm.
Ow ∞: A Bold Leap into Nostalgia
Released this past Friday, Ow ∞ marks a significant sonic departure for the duo. Where previous records like Free Love explored dustier textures and glossy dance production, their new album embraces a distinctly turn-of-the-century vibe. Expect a captivating blend of breakbeats and distorted guitars, evoking echoes of bands like Soul Coughing and Blur on tracks such as “Hot Slob” and “Concrete Glen.” Yet, loyal fans need not fret; the album deftly weaves in the modern vocal production and electronic flourishes that are unmistakably Sylvan Esso.
The Art of Reinvention
Amelia Meath and Nick Sanborn are masters of pushing boundaries while retaining the core essence of their sound. Ow ∞ is a testament to this delicate balance, showcasing their willingness to experiment and grow without losing the intimate, low-key electro-pop sensibility that first captivated audiences. It’s a record that feels both familiar and refreshingly new, inviting listeners to explore the depths of their evolving artistry.
Beyond the Studio: Sylvan Esso’s World Unfiltered
To mark the release of Ow ∞, Sylvan Esso generously offered a glimpse into their personal preferences and creative minds through our weekly questionnaire. Their answers are as eclectic and engaging as their music.
Tech & Tools: From Laptops to Food Replicators
For Nick Sanborn, his laptop is his most indispensable tool, a loyal companion since high school. He proudly identifies as a millennial who “despises typing or doing any important work on a touchscreen.” Amelia Meath, however, dreams bigger for her phone: “I wish the phone was actually a food replicator. So many problems would be solved.” Nick, on the other hand, wishes his phone “felt like it cared more about me than its creator.” These contrasting desires highlight their distinct approaches to technology – one practical, the other wonderfully imaginative.
Amelia’s favorite gadget memory harks back to her high school days with a T-Mobile Sidekick, where she kept her journal. A nostalgic nod to a simpler era of mobile tech.
Digital Escapes & Analog Dreams
When it comes to online havens, Nick finds solace in a version of the old Monome forum, a positive space focused on programming and instrument design. “It’s the only place on the internet that feels more positive than detrimental to me,” he shares. Amelia’s online escape is more mystical: Spellsofmagic.com.
Their gaming preferences also reveal a blend of classic and contemporary. Nick’s fondest memories are of
EarthBound, the “gorgeous, heartfelt, quirky JRPG on the Super Nintendo” from ’94, which he revisits every few years. Amelia’s gateway into adult gaming was Skyward Sword on the Wii, a communal experience that led her to fall in love with titles like Hollow Knight, Blue Prince, and Hades.
Nick also shared a long-held dream: creating a specific AM/FM radio with an analog tuner controllable remotely. After years of frustration, a small Italian company finally made something close, though he still believes “it could be better lol.” This relentless pursuit of the ideal tool perfectly encapsulates the meticulous nature of a musician.
Philosophy & Process: Battling Apathy, Finding Focus
Amelia Meath has a clear tech trend she wishes would disappear: “The encouragement of apathy.” It’s a poignant observation in an increasingly digital world.
When focus is elusive, Amelia turns to nature: “I go outside and sit. Usually, I have to be writing, so I can take my notebook out. I try to leave my phone inside, but I usually forget!” Nick’s creative blocks often stem from a desire for perfection: “I usually find myself stuck when I want something to be good and it just isn’t yet, but I can’t let it go.”
The Enduring Charm of Sylvan Esso
Sylvan Esso continues to evolve, not just in their music but in their candid reflections on life, tech, and creativity. Ow ∞ is a vibrant testament to their artistic courage, offering a fresh yet familiar sound that will delight long-time fans and new listeners alike. And while their advice on yogurt might be a delightful aside, their dedication to craft and their thoughtful engagement with the world around them are truly what make Amelia Meath and Nick Sanborn an indispensable force in contemporary music.
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