Riki is the Los Angeles based dark synth-pop outfit commandeered by the mysterious Niff Nawor, a visual artist and musician active in the deathrock / anarcho-punk scenes of the California bay area (formerly a member of Crimson Scarlet), before founding her solo endeavor as Riki in 2017.
Riki returns with her 2nd simulacrum of pitch-perfect synth-pop, aptly titled for the precious substance it is: Gold. Inspired by notions of symbolic power, letting go, and transmutable realms of the heart, the album further refines her rare gift for making swooning melancholia as anthemic as it atmospheric. Working with Telefon Tel Aviv co-founder Josh Eustis at his Pasadena studio, the sessions unfolded fluidly and fruitfully, focusing on “quieter moments” and refining the record’s palette and voice. Occasional interruption from a nearby flock of wild parrots infused a mood of California dreaming, purple sunsets dissolving into deepening neon night.
Named after an Italian speedboat company—corrupted with an extra i—Miami's Donzii was started by vocalist Jenna Balfe and musician Dennis Fuller. Their post-punk vision is a unity of go-hard industrial bangers, darkly ambient balladry, and new takes on the funk traditions of No Wave. Formed in 2015 during jam sessions at a dilapidated suburban mansion from the ’70s, the Donzii galaxy has included a number of supporting musicians over the years, helping to form their poly-blend of electronics, bass guitar, ‘80s utopian guitar and vocalist Balfe’s hauntingly spirited vocals. Balfe’s poetic lyrics spill from many inner dimensions and intentions: “A lot of my inspiration comes from wanting people to think more deeply about being able to exist in a way that is more joyful,” she says. “Not in a Live Love Laugh kinda way, but in a way that encompasses the material grossness of this chaotic life cycle with a little chuckle beneath your breath. Like watching sweet little pink flowers grow atop a pile of decaying bones and compost.” Inspired by the full range of feelings on planet Earth, from the darkest corners to the sunniest days, Balfe and Fuller are allergic to trends but resolutely of the moment. Donzii is a therapeutic exercise in sincere and honest expression, a confrontation with demons, a celebration of getting lost. In many ways Donzii is not a normal band. But, as Balfe says, there is one rule of all great music that they follow: “We do it so people can dance.”
Local powerhouses and perfect band Immaculate Conception open