From the moment I heard the single "Knife" from Brooklyn-based electronic indie band EXNATIONS earlier this year, I was hooked on their unique brand of dark and dreamy electronic indie pop. The band recently released yet another stunning single "Tether", and just premiered its accompanying music video on Earmilk. "Tether" is the first taste of music from EXNATION's forthcoming Pink Haze EP, to be released June 28.
EXNATIONS is comprised of Sal Mastrocola, Taylor Hughes, and John O'Neill. Their musical style is a unique combination of dreamy, sad and melodic electronic indie pop, and their polished, powerful sound is reminiscent of contemporary artists the likes of Brandon Flowers (The Killers) and Bleachers. On their Facebook page, EXNATIONS notes musical influences from artists that include The Cure, Phil Collins, New Order, Bleachers, and Death Cab For Cutie.
New single "Tether" boasts an infectious chorus, while cleverly-placed guitar hooks accentuate the track's upbeat, synth-based, atmospheric melody. The single is the lead track of the forthcoming Pink Haze EP, about which the band reports, "Much of Pink Haze deals from the warm halcyon embrace of nostalgia. Beautiful and all-enveloping, it’s so easy to get lost in. if you can find your way through the haze and look at the past honestly and critically, there’s so much potential for growth and progression."
The accompanying music video for "Tether" takes a glimpse into the world of online dating, with a spotlight on the LGBTQ community. The takeaway message is that remaining genuine and real just might offer the rewards of true love.
EXNATIONS "TETHER" (Official Music Video)
Every time I listen to EXNATIONS' prior single "Knife," I'm amazed at how gracefully the sparse, gentle-paced verses transition to the song's climactic chorus, with lead singer Sal Mastrocola's pleading, angst-filled vocals. The yearning, anthemic chorus of "Knife" makes it that song you want to sing at the top of your lungs in the pouring night rain.
To take in "Knife" from a visual perspective, watch the single's accompanying cinematic music video, filmed in NYC with footage taken from a variety of sources, including iPhone video from the band members' apartments.
EXNATIONS "KNIFE" (Official Music Video)
I've given both "Knife" and "Tether" their fair share of repeat plays on Spotify, and you just might find yourself doing the same after reading this post and giving this emerging band's impressive music a listen! EXNATIONS will also be kicking off their Pink Haze Tour this July - be sure to check out one of their live performances if they're coming to your neck of the woods.
For more information about EXNATIONS, visit their official website, follow on social media (Facebook, Twitter, Instagram, YouTube), and find their music on SoundCloud, Spotify and iTunes.