cowboyy - “Gmaps”

SXSW 2023 - OEB Score: 8; Popularity Index: 2

Pairs Well With…Vampire Weekend, Dirty Projectors, Yard Act

English rock band cowboyy have shared just two-and-a-half minutes of music in their debut “Gmaps”, but there is so much there that it’s clear they are a band to watch in the near future. Surf rock guitar lines, bouncy indie rock percussion, and pointed speak-sing vocals identify this highlight track. Angular, jangled riffs give “Gmaps” a sense of movement, an ever-changing single in the tradition of Remain-in-Light experimentalism while still keeping a funky groove in its backbone. Those spoken vocals would normally sound at odds with the quick, math-rock melodies playing out instrumentally, but instead cowboyy use that setting to provide danceable tension. It’s hard to tell if cowboyy’s approach is serious and biting or tongue in cheek, a good sign of their ability to surprise in whatever this exciting band has lined up next. Cowboyy’s debut EP Epic The Movie is due this March just in time for SXSW, so keep an ear out for what else this exciting outfit has up their recent sleeves. (Kevin McStravick)