JBABE - “Punch Me In My Third Eye”

SXSW 2022 - OEB Score: 7; Popularity Index: 3

Pairs Well With…Toro y Moi, Neon Indian, Blood Orange

Neo-soul R&B and chillwave pop intersect on JBABE’s 2019 mouthful of a debut Play the Piano Drunk Like a Percussion Instrument Until the Fingers Begin to Bleed a Bit, an experimental take on the genre that engages through the Indian artist’s eclectic sonic choices. Woozy melodies play over slowed-down electronic rhythms, but JBABE is smart to add plunky phrases that give his music a bit more bounce than his smooth-soul peers. Psychedelic pop layers further take JBABE’s music outside of level atmosphere, employed with subtlety to not trip too beyond each song’s core groove. Since the release of his full-length, JBABE released the post-punk chaos of “Punch Me in My Third Eye”, perhaps a sign that he’s ready to take another dramatic leap in his music heading into SXSW 2022. JBABE showcases on Wednesday night at Higher Ground as part of international showcase representing India, Mongolia, Belgium, and the Philippines. (Kevin McStravick)