Mi Ami – Dolphins

Single Review by David Bowes | 28 Feb 2011
Single title: Dolphins
Artist: Mi Ami
Label: Thrill Jockey
Release date: 14 Mar

Thought the synth revival was dead and buried? Think again. What’s surprising is just how far it has come in the past few years, as evidenced by San Franciscan outfit Mi Ami’s latest 12”. In taking the obligatory disco template then adding some krautrock-friendly loops and some truly love-marmite vocals from Daniel Martin-McCormick, they’ve concocted a sound that is a million miles away from their avant rock roots.

It’s a dated but oddly refreshing exploration of electronic soundscapes, harking back to the halcyon days of Grandmaster Flash but with a touch of modern-day cynicism, uplifting without feeling sugar-coated. Given that this has been something of a gamble for the now-duo, it seems to have paid off – even if the unrelenting approach could prove too demanding for a full LP. [David Bowes]

Playing Captain's Rest, Glasgow on 21 Mar

http://www.myspace.com/miamiamiami