June 2009

Artist: Toro Y Moi Album: June 2009
Reviewed 6/13'12 by Rex
Genre: Indie Pop
RIYL: Washed Out, Beach House
In summary: Whether he likes it or not, Chaz Bundick is at the head of the chillwave movement, his music as Toro Y Moi smooth, shiny, and groove-friendly. His new release, June 2009, collects ten cuts from the month of the title, some of the material coming from a time long ago, before even Bundick’s debut on Causers of This. The most notable differences between this peak into the past and the Toro Y Moi we’ve come to know are in the rough edges, the significantly lower fidelity production, and some unexpected instrumental changes, rather than any structural or thematic alteration.
FCC: 5

1. (1.29)- relaxed feeling, echoed male vocals
2. (2.23)- Built on synths and a disco-flavored beat, the funky bass line really steals the show, and the sampled chatting at the beginning sets an easy-going atmosphere
*3. (2.43)- blurry, inspirative, bright feeling w/ a little bit melancholy
*4. (2.25)- propulsive, clean melodic lines
5. FCC!!! (3.20)- soothing, an incredibly literal recollection of a river tubing expedition
*6. (3.38)- slow-tempo, the roller-rink pop of "Drive South" hints at Bundick starting to get a grasp for rhythm and texture
*7. (2.56)- drum machines are crudely recorded and might be overcompensating in terms of volume, but you can hear in the slick harmonies and wobbly arrangement that it's where Toro Y Moi really started to take shape, repetitive lyrics
8. (3.47)- incredible sound craft, reminiscent
*9. (2.40)- hits the other end of the spectrum, a toasty wash of synth-surf pop that doesn’t really grow or change very much, but it might be the most accessible track in the collection, lovely atmosphere
10. (3.39)- dabbles in acoustic guitar, relaxed feeling