GRLS - “fool for love”

SXSW 2022 - OEB Score: 8; Popularity Index: 3

Pairs Well With…MISSIO, SOHN, Rüfüs Du Sol

GRLS present a softly hypnotic sound, part dance pop and part trip hop soul, elements that build and recede across their introductory singles. The Mexican duo, performing in English, are sonic experimenters around grooving electronic instrumentation, though they keep smooth rhythms and melodies top of mind instead of creating jagged breaks in their music. House beats also find impact sporadically, used sparingly but effectively to propel GRLS’ music forward. They use two lead vocalists as well - it’s a surprising range of sound offered given the normally tight bounds around atmospheric trip hop. Their latest singles like R&B-infused groover “fool for love” and dark, ambient pop number “dystopia” are most likely part of teased record on the horizon from GRLS, so look out for more from the eclectic, glassy duo later this year. (Kevin McStravick)