MICHELLE: A New Era of Indie Pop Inspired by Boy Bands and Girl Groups
As the New York collective MICHELLE releases their third album, Songs About You Specifically, they are embracing the influences of iconic boy bands and girl groups. This album, which dropped today via Transgressive Records, marks a significant evolution in their sound and approach, showcasing the power of collaboration among its four lead vocalists.
A Nod to Pop History
While Songs About You Specifically may not directly echo the sounds of One Direction, Spice Girls, or Fifth Harmony, the inspiration drawn from these groups is palpable. Julian Kaufman, one of the band’s producers, highlights the challenge of finding modern pop music with multiple lead vocalists. “When you’re trying to learn vocal arrangements and trying to reference music that also has this many vocals, the only music you can find are these girl bands,” he explains. This historical context is crucial, as it informs their approach to vocal harmonies and arrangements.
Collaborative Creation in Ojai
The album was crafted in the serene surroundings of Ojai, California, where the band members came together to write and record. Unlike their previous albums, which featured songs primarily led by individual vocalists, this new release showcases the collective talent of the group. Each track features multiple voices, adding a rich tapestry of sound that defines MICHELLE’s unique brand of indie pop.
Distinctive Vocal Arrangements
Kaufman emphasizes the importance of variety in their vocal arrangements. The band employs different microphones for each vocalist, drawing inspiration from mid-2010s hip-hop, where features are recorded separately and blended in the studio. This technique allows for a diverse range of harmonies, enhancing the listening experience. “Can you hear any of this stuff? No, but it all adds up to subtle things in your brain,” he notes, highlighting the intricacies of their production process.
Embracing Pop Comparisons
While some artists might shy away from comparisons to bubblegum pop, vocalist Sofia D’Angelo embraces it wholeheartedly. “I’m freaking out about this, because this is what I would do with One Direction,” she exclaims, expressing excitement about the distinctiveness of each member’s voice within the group. This enthusiasm for their pop influences reflects a broader appreciation for the genre’s ability to connect with audiences.
Elevating Live Performances
MICHELLE is also enhancing their live performances, incorporating more elaborate choreography and stage presence reminiscent of major pop acts. Layla Ku notes the intentionality behind their choreography, crediting choreographer Lee for crafting visually engaging routines. The addition of live drums, coordinated outfits, and even wind machines has transformed their shows into dynamic experiences. “It’s become very visually pleasing,” Ku says, reflecting on the evolution of their performances.
Diverse Perspectives in Songwriting
The songwriting process for Songs About You Specifically involved splitting into smaller groups, with the first to finish a track preparing dinner for the others. This collaborative spirit fosters a rich diversity of perspectives, allowing MICHELLE to explore themes of queer relationships and personal experiences. Emma Lee articulates the excitement of presenting varied narratives under the MICHELLE umbrella, emphasizing the collective’s ability to authentically represent different voices.
A Genre-Defying Sound
The album defies easy categorization, blending elements from ‘90s R&B to indie pop influences reminiscent of bands like Phantogram and Phoenix. Kaufman acknowledges the intentional ambiguity in their sound, stating, “Sonically, it is not very clear what genre this [album] is. That is something we were going for.” This genre-blurring approach allows MICHELLE to carve out a unique identity in the music landscape.
Celebrating Queer Representation
As a predominantly queer collective, MICHELLE is part of a broader cultural shift embracing LGBTQIA+ artists. The band members express optimism about the increasing visibility and acceptance of queer narratives in pop culture. Jamee Lockard emphasizes the importance of this moment, noting that queer individuals are finally feeling comfortable sharing their stories. “Queer people aren’t going anywhere,” she asserts, highlighting the enduring presence of diverse voices in the industry.
Navigating Commercialization
While the band celebrates the progress made in queer representation, they also express concern about the commodification of queer art. Ku articulates a desire for a future where queer stories are seen as integral to the music landscape rather than merely a trend to capitalize on. “I look forward to when the commodification of queer aesthetic and art comes to a close,” she reflects, emphasizing the need for genuine representation and storytelling.
A Collective Journey
Through their innovative approach to music and performance, MICHELLE is redefining what it means to be a pop collective in today’s music scene. Their commitment to collaboration, authenticity, and diverse representation sets them apart as a group that is not only creating music but also fostering a deeper cultural dialogue. As they continue to evolve, MICHELLE stands poised to make a lasting impact on the indie pop landscape.
