Sensual, provocatively percussive pop comes naturally to Friends. But you may be surprised by “I’m His Girl” – the second single from the Brooklyn newcomers – and just how cool and pop it is. As rapturous as Blondie’s best, and as stylish as Neneh Cherry’s tip-top pop gem “Buffalo Stance,” it’s the finest fusion of lo-fi indie cool and soulful urban textures of 2011.
This quintet of essential and un-missable characters, led by the captivating 23-year-old Samantha Urbani, steer well clear of fashion. They distil classic leftfield but party-hardy influences – ESG, Tom Tom Club – and filter them into a deliciously naive and singular aesthetic. “Weird pop with a dash of ‘tropicool,’” they’ve dubbed it. It’s where African-inspired rhythms add to a loose-limbed, fluid and funky melange. Fun and free spirited for sure, but it’s always strong-minded. Check the lyrical message: “When you see me walking around with him / I’m not just another chick, I’m his girl … It’s all about affection not possession with us.”
Equally tantalising is the flipside. Ghost Town DJs’ 1996 hit, “My Boo”, has long been a live favourite for the band. Now here it is recorded: a full-throttle sing-a-long, retaining the thrilling pop sensibility of the original, and injecting a healthy dash of Friends’ effortless attitude and edgy groove.
Friends will head over for their debut UK shows in late September, alongside fellow Lucky Number signings, Caged Animals. On stage the band are a sexy and sweat-inducing spectacle. Don’t miss this early opportunity to feel the full Friends effect.
TRACKLISTING
I’m His Girl
My Boo (Ghost Town DJ’s)
UPCOMING LIVE SHOWS
SEPTEMBER
27 – London, Hoxton Square Bar & Kitchen (presented by Popular) Tickets
28 – London, Shacklewell Arms (presented by Rockfeedback) Tickets
30 – Manchester, The Castle (presented by Now Wave) Tickets
