Portland – Mississippi Studios hosted synth pop duo Wishyunu on Sunday night, which doubled as a release show for their just-dropped (and self-issued) 7’’ Photoplay. Wishyunu’s sound is an experience, one which is almost unexpected. The duo utilizes lead singer Bei Yan’s delicate vocals, guitar and synth machine, and drummer Tony Bertaccini to create their psychedelic, grunge pop sound. Wishyunu’s sound is fresh, with a surprisingly simplistic use of synth and drum. With Nirvana as one of their influences, their music is just soft enough, and just heavy enough. There are elements of multiple genres in their music—grunge and pop being the most prevalent, but their creative usage of ambience and technique of looping sound show a contemporary edge that will lure audiences.
The married duo and Portland natives began playing music together as early as 2008, though it started as just a sound project between the two. Once they gained the Wishyunu moniker and defined their sound, 2010 saw their first release with a five-track EP, Day No How. 2013’s Futuray reflected Wishyunu’s maturity as musicians and their ability to master and manipulate their sound innovatively without losing their original vision. Photoplay only boasts two tracks, but the band has proved that with each new release comes confidence and effectiveness in their sound.
The release of Photoplay was a fundamental part of their show, and the tracks that followed proved to be the best they’ve produced yet. “Photoplay” begins with a synth loop that bounces and emphasizes their growth as artists, with more skill instrumentally and organization in their choices. The crowd was visibly excited when the track started, and the band fed off their energy with long, low guitar riffs and skillful additions of drums. The song was reminiscent of Future Island’s danceable electro-pop, but with a darkness worthy of grunge.
“Sprayy” (off Futuray) had exciting uses of instruments, including the addition of dance-y 80’s pop in the background and stripped-down vocals and powerful drums in the forefront. Yan and Bertaccini were situated in separate spaces on stage that resembled two different workstations: Yan with her guitar and synth, and Bertaccini focused completely on his drum kit. There was a shy aspect to their stage presence. It was clear that Wishyunu was immersed in their music.
Yan’s angelic, breathy vocals were accentuated in “Walkaway.” The track moves easily from pop to grunge and back. Bertaccini’s contribution is just as vital to the band’s sound: his ability as a drummer is unwavering, and both musicians’ commitment to their individual instruments is a reason why Wishyunu provokes comparisons to different genres, they are able to combine elements that mesh into a contemporary and interesting sound. They have heaviness that is vastly different than traditional ambient electro, and a refreshing change from the norm. While Wishyunu is, in many ways, just starting out as artists, it is clear that their dedication will be fundamental to their success.
Photoplay is available via Bandcamp now. To follow their upcoming tour dates, like Wishyunu on Facebook.
Photo of Wishyunu live by Dakota Smith
Dakota Smith
Follow her on twitter in case she says something funny: @LikeTheStates
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