By: Fiona Hannigan
Sego, made up of Spencer Petersen and Thomas Carroll, works to find a synthesis of dueling tensions. Utah transplants in Los Angeles, the duo’s sound is full of small-town-big-city tensions, the new and the old, and the harmony between. Edgy guitar and delicious synth are brought together by perfectly catchy melodies, like in the chorus of “20 Years Tall,” appearing just enough times to be effective. Sego combines analog and digital to achieve a balance that still bubbles with tangible energy and joyous rhythm. The vocals and sense of musical space are sure to excite dance-punk fans (The Rapture and Block Party fans: we see you). But they have a lushness and harmony that should make for a memorable live show regardless.
Last fall, they released their stellar debut EP “Wicket Youth” on the stylish French electronic/indie label Kitsuné. After sharpening their chops at SXSW (and being previewed by NPR’s All Songs Considered, where they were described as a “woozy rock duo”), Sego will be ready to bring their rhythmic and contagious grooves to Boise.
See them at the Apes on Tape Showcase Saturday at 5p.m.