Yumi Zouma - “Cool For A Second”

SXSW 2020 - OEB Score: 8; Popularity Index: 7

Pairs Well With…CHVRCHES, Geowulf, Hatchie

New Zealand dream pop band Yumi Zouma are set to release their third record Truth or Consequences in March and it’s looking to be a strong continuation of their bright, chillwave-pop foundation. Both “Cool for a Second” and “Right Track / Wrong Man”, the two early singles, are notably smoother than what came before, letting each synth and vocal melody really find its space. It’s a shinier sound as well - Yumi Zouma have found a way to make soft sounds vivid and vibrant evolved record over record since their 2014’s debut EP. The two preview singles from Truth or Consequences take different approaches to Yumi Zouma’s new wave vibes - “Cool for a Second” is chilled and more outright pop in its underbelly while “Right Track / Wrong Man” hits a sweet, R&B-leaning groove in which to weave airy melodies around. Yumi Zouma did release another single in 2019 that won’t be on Truth or Consequences, “Bruise”, a down-tempo dance track with a thicker, catchier dynamic, so look for more of that to round out their anticipated full-length. (Kevin McStravick)