Nasty Cherry - “Win”

SXSW 2020 - OEB Score: 8; Popularity Index: 6

Pairs Well With…HAIM, Tennis, Charli XCX

Nasty Cherry have an origin story that feels very 2020, formed as the basis of the Netflix show I’m with the Band, four strangers chosen by pop artist Charli XCX put together to tour and make a record. Unlike the slew of albums that come from singing competitions and the like, Nasty Cherry’s debut EP Season 1 is actually an excellent collection of new wave pop tracks. Their music is infused with punk, power pop, and dance elements, a catchy presentation that is a mix of glammy confidence and garage pop personality. See lead single “Win” for a show of their inherent direction melding, moving from a nonchalant alt rock verse into a chorus that could be pulled from a hit dance record. It’s not a jarring transition however, rather Nasty Cherry sounds coherent and focused within their tight three-minute pop tracks. “What Do You Like In Me” vibes out with dreamy, soft pop resonance while “Brain Soup” explores meaty space funk - it’s a sound both fun and ambitious, smartly not taking itself too seriously in a way that loosens things up a bit. Here’s to Season 2 and hopefully “the band” is able to grow excitedly from here. (Kevin McStravick)