Argonaut & Wasp - “Dog Days”

SXSW 2022 - OEB Score: 8; Popularity Index: 5

Pairs Well With…Chromeo, Foster the People, Portugal. The Man

Constantly fun and upbeat, Argonaut & Wasp’s debut full-length STARLIGHT 99 is a disco-fueled, indie pop record painted with a chillwave brush. It’s catchy yet softened, handclap pop that’s also a detailed headphone listen. In between dance pop and indie rock, Argonaut & Wasp find comfortable space to share their funky songcraft, playful (see winking soul jam “Autoslide”) yet focused in their hook-filled verse and choruses. Under bright melodies and rhythm, Argonaut & Wasp hide more moody material (“Monacillo”, “Dog Days”) in a way that cleverly balances light accompaniment with new-wave emotionality. Guitars and synth both play lead bouncing between pop and rock tones across STARLIGHT 99, creating a sound that should translate to a full, exciting live set next month at SXSW. (Kevin McStravick)