New Music: Matador Sphere drops new single August 23, announced Ulrika Spacek, Queen Serene show at 13th Floor
Florida to Austin outfit, Matador Sphere (fka Fading Yellow) have made a big splash in Austin in a relatively short time. The band formed in Tallahassee but actually got their start in Austin, moving to the city before ever playing a gig or recording a song to make their push as a group in the Live Music Capital. On Friday, August 16 the group announced a new single, “Water Bug” which is coming soon to music listeners on all streaming platforms. For now, fans can hear this track as well as listen to their previous EP, Stereo Assessment which The Cosmic Clash wrote about last year.
The name change according to the band represents a shift in direction of their sound and mission statement. Matador Sphere means pushing sonic boundaries as well as pushing each other musically. Their evolving sound shows more use of drum machines and intricate song writing structures. It is clear the group is seeking to establish new ground sonically while reflecting their respective musical influences.
Matador Sphere plays Austin next on September 21 with East Londoners, Ulrika Spacek and Austin peers Queen Serene at one our favorite Red River haunts, The 13th Floor. Advance tickets are available now online and via the Dice ticketing app. For fans in San Marcos or those willing to travel a bit outside Austin to see good music performed, Matador Sphere plays Alchemy Records w/Arbordae, True Summit and Window Shop on August 22 where the band is likely to offer the first performance of the new track. Alchemy Records is located at 145 S L B J Drive. Music starts at 8 p.m.
The new track, “Water Bug” might has well been called “Ear Worm,” with its oddly eerie keyboard introduction (mellotron?). Whatever the instrument making that both ghostly and psychedelic sound it’s damn catchy to the point that we had to stop playing the track in fear we’d end up looping that riff in our heads perpetually. To be honest, the band would love nothing more than for fans to go to their favorite streaming platform and put it on repeat. But you’ll have to wait until August 23 to do that as the song drops then. Until then, take our word for it, the track is great, reflecting their myriad influences while achieving their goal of evolving the band’s sonic footprint as they move forward creatively.
Matador Sphere create vivid sounds reminiscent of experimental pop and rock with influences ranging from MPB (popular Brazilian music), Krautrock, and hypnagogic musical styles. The Austin-based band is helmed by Ed Gonzalez (vox/guitar), Jared Abramowitz (vox/keys/synths), Enzo Ampuero (bass/synth). Live, they expand their lineup to include saxophone, flute, sample loops, drums and drum machines in order to create an eclectic wall of sound employing the best musicians available much like their show at Chess Club in December of last year where they presented an expanded live roster for the first time.
Beyond that, the band are all committed musicians, bringing creative intent mashed with musical talent and the energy of youth to create one of Austin’s most unique sounds. That may sound hyperbolic but it’s not. Did you read the band’s bio? Their approach to music is intentionally atypical. It’s clear in Matador Sphere’s burgeoning discography and performances.
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