The phrase "Toro y Moi" can be roughly translated as "Bull and I." Toro Y Moi is also another name for Chazwick Bundick, a South Carolina native who has become a leader in the chillwave scene. Despite the moniker; Bundick's music is no bull.
Underneath the Pine is Bundick's second album for Carpark. It's more accomplished than Causers of This, which was more murky in atmosphere. Underneath starts with a lush instrumental, "Intro Chi Chi," which conjures the spirit of the listener, getting them ready for a funky, soulful, and appealing record. The variety of skilled arrangements is what makes this document a stand out. The songs seem perfectly placed. Take "Good Hold," which starts with a chiming piano line, only to carry the piano through with live drums and sparkling electronic textures. Around the 1:35 mark, the song sounds like it's going in and out of a tunnel, reemerging just before everything fades out. "Good Hold" is a perfect set up for album closer "Elise," which presents Bundick in full band form. It would have been easy for Bundick to use a drum machine, but those types of machines have no soul and he knows that, choosing to go with live drums throughout the record. Toro Y Moi hasn't completely parted ways with the aforementioned murk, but it seems better calculated.
The sonic discoveries make this album very enjoyable. The humidity and casual pace of the songs leaves plenty of room for growth with the sounds after repeated listens. However, it only takes one full listen to figure out that there's serious skills by Bundick on display. I would suggest blasting Underneath the Pine during a warm, sunny drive thorough mystical places. Or, anytime, really. Acoustic guitar pinches, synth drones, and impeccable rhythms will perk your ears. Bundick has a thing for analog warmth, but he makes retro chick sound like it's coming from some undisclosed musical genius planet.
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