Gayngs

Gayngs

The concept of an indie "supergroup" is tantalizing, but more often than not falls short of expectations. I can think of a few exceptions (like early New Pornographers), but for whatever reason the music world is littered with these abandoned super bands.

New Jagjaguwar artist Gayngs has been labeled a supergroup, and indeed the band is comprised of some diverse personalities, including the likes of Bon Iver (who is everywhere??) and members of Solid Ground, Megafaun, The Rosebuds, and Lookbook.

So what sort of sound comes from this concoction?

I like to think of it as Bon Iver killing time at your neighborhood diner, or buddying up with Kenny G. Yes, its weird. Yes, it sat in my iTunes for weeks. No, I'm still not sure what to do with it. But its different, and its good.

I figured it was only a matter of time before the always-ironic indie music scene tackled the adult-contemporary soft rock/R&B that is so persistently played at Denny's and your local dentist. I'm not usually a fan of music that conjures up images of tired-eyed waitresses and ivory-toothed "dental hygienists" ... but Gayngs has just enough soul (and courage) to craft some songs with depth and creativity. I suppose the album works best because they take it so seriously. Sure, there are sections that will make you chuckle (or cringe) but as the album progresses, this impulse toward mockery will fade—leaving you (hopefully) with an appreciation for some great songwriting. Highly recommended.

Gayngs' debut Relayted is out May 11 on Jagjagwar

mp3: Gayngs -- The Gaudy Side Of Town