FEATURE ARTIST: Du Tonc

There's always something exciting about new, previously unheard of groups emerging within the music scene. It brings about an air of anticipation that's ironically founded on having no expectation or idea of what that artist will bring to the musical table until we hear their stuff.

But perhaps something that intrigues me even more as a listener is finding the arrival of a new group, that's comprised of already well-established musical masterminds. Some like to use the term 'supergroup' - but I find it tasteless and slightly arrogant. Musically, it's always interesting to draw comparisons between the artists prior to their amalgamation, and after it. And never more so than with the latest coming together of two super talented musicians.

DU TONC is the fusion of Mighty Mouse and Matt Van Schie of indie legends Van She, whose second record Idea of Happiness garnered them a lot of popular support and saw the group make regular festival appearances and support some big international acts. Before making himself known as a super prolific online star, Mighty Mouse attracted attention by remixing the likes of Madonna, Prince, Gil Scott Heron and his now infamous rework of ABBA. His Disco Circus compilation series was critically acclaimed which saw him tour relentlessly overseas.

Just from those two names alone, it's a project that any lover of disco slash indie music can immediately become excited about. Their first single, Darkness, has just been released and already we can hear strong influences from both individual artists, whilst the dudes also carve out a truly individual sound. It's a true modern disco track mixed with a poppy bass presence, light and playful guitar melodies put over a relentless synth beat. Van Schie's vocals on Darkness is a personal highlight for me. Eerie and haunting at times and yet strangely uplifting and vibrant at others, Van Schie provides a pop overtone with cleverly utilised falsetto that creates a great pop-indie vibe.

The duo will hit the road in April of this year for a DJ tour, just after the release of their second single. These guys are definitely an act to watch. Keep up with DU TONC on FACEBOOK

Words by Edmund Kirkwood

LISTEN TO MORE NEW MUSIC HERE