79.5 - “Predictions”

SXSW 2020 - OEB Score: 7; Popularity Index: 4

Pairs Well With…Sweet Spirit, Stop Light Observations, Melody’s Echo Chamber

While 79.5’s new wave synths and breezy pop stylings have a keen sense of nostalgia, the NYC soul-rock band performs with a quirky, psychedelic air that turns an AM Gold sound upside down. Hints of smooth jazz and funk also inform their 2018 debut Predictions, but there’s punk-inspired twists to how the band applies those themes that nicely juxtaposes throughout the consistently grooving record. It’s a great lounge album with a tripped-out, warm midnight vibe, a cooled introduction for 79.5’s unique yet familiar sound. (Kevin McStravick)