South Korean-born and San Francisco-based artist 3kelves, also known as Taewook Lucas Kang, has delivered a vibrant EP with Lucas 루카스 (out March 29). Drawing inspiration from his travels around the world and his experiences meeting fellow producers in person after initially connecting online during the pandemic, 3kelves’ five song collection seamlessly blends indie pop with electro and creates a sound that is both funky and infectious.
Collaborating with Dylan C. Greene from the Netherland, “Nonsense” has an undertone of melancholy that is fully betrayed by the captivating dance floor vibes. Those dance floor vibes created by 3kelves exudes optimism despite the challenges that we the human race have created for ourselves. It’s 3kelves reminding us to be kind to one another.
At times, I am reminded of Ben Gibbard with 3kelves vocals. There’s an expressiveness and delicateness that 3kelves carries throughout each song that works against the funk.
The shining star of Lucas 루카스 though is the bass. It’s perfect on every single song. There are moments when I hear Bootsy Collins and then moments where I think of Victor Wooten. 3kelves infuses each track with an infectious energy and undeniable groove.
And to be honest, we need more groove in our lives.
With Lucas 루카스, 3kelves shows us that dance floor-ready anthems and disco vibes are here to stay.
MUST LISTEN TRACKS: “Tides,” “Swallow,” “CoreCore”
