Almost Famous: SUNGLASSES

Reblogged from MissMallibu

Sunglasses is the Savannah-based duo of Samuel Cooper and Brady Keehn, better known when they’re jamming as 8000 Bam Bam (a nod to Andre 3000) and Baby Seal. The duo met during post-production for Sam’s senior film project in college. Shortly thereafter they recorded and produced the songs “Referee” and “Whiplash” in Brady’s bedroom. Then just a couple of weeks after they made the vibe-inducing video for “Whiplash,” they were signed with Lefre Records, the same home label for Neon Indian and The Delta Mirror.

The band’s new self-titled EP plays like an tropical version of an East River booze cruise with claps, birds, whistles, a dance-insistent bass line, and psychedelic synth that sounds like the innocent offspring of Outkast’s funk-infused “Snappin’ & Trappin’”. Cooper’s vocals have the bright, unassuming vibe of Pill Wonder mixed with the romantic undertones of Peter Bjorn & John, while Keehn’s sound layering is the perfect blend of stripped-down simplicity and playful pop noise a la The Shout Out Louds.

Listening to their EP is like unwrapping a gift box filled with glitter, kazoos and multi-colored kittens with a giant weed brownie included. Most impressive, it appears Sunglasses has already nailed a defining sound with their danceable sound layers and offbeat southern swagger. Get your joy on right now with the video for “Whiplash” below and hear the single “Referee” on the band’s MySpace page. Dogs lampin’ in blue sunglasses for the win. xo