Sam the Astronaut is like a giant alien synthesizer entering Earth’s atmosphere preparing to beam you up with its lush soundwaves. Its purpose; to take you to a place where the dull realities of everyday life are washed away and, even just for a moment, replaced with an irresistible urge to dance. And trust, they will be there right beside you the entire time.
“Midnight Carlight” is the lead single and title-track off of the duo’s forthcoming independently-released sophomore album (set for release on August 28th, 2020). With production so thick you can always find a new layer to swim in, “Midnight Carlight” is a cathartic ode to the feeling of being trapped in a relationship. The duo, comprised of Garrison Johnson and TJ Gibson, came together almost inevitably. Growing up in the same Vancouver suburb of Port Moody, but running with different crews, they pursued their musical ambitions independently while discovering a mutual admiration for each other from afar.
Their creative paths finally aligned when they simultaneously found themselves between projects looking for a fresh musical perspective and finding that in one another. With that, Sam the Astronaut, an alchemical mix of snappy pop, new-wave electronic, hip-hop grit, funky disco and the pile of loose change that’s never quite enough for what you need, was born. All Sam the Astronaut wants to do is move you. Whether that be by way of their infectious beats and melodies sparking a blaze throughout your body that turns into a dance, or emotionally through those same elements weaving around powerful lyricism. The combination of Garrison’s distinct rich vocals and TJ’s dynamic production offers up anthemic West Coast alt-pop that feels both contemporary and reminiscent of the classic hits across your favourite party playlist. Coming down from the nova, and near the curvy moon, Sam the Astronaut emits a sound that fills the shadows of everyday life. A soundtrack laced in silver that’s yours to keep.
