by Dan Goldin (@post_trash_)
Naja Naja are a post-punk duo based in Beijing, China, set to release their self-titled debut EP on April 29th via Wharf Cat Records (US) and Bié Records (China). With their introductory single, “Dong Dong,” they’ve already been proven to make music so nice, they had to name it twice. All jokes aside though, the duo of Gou Gou (bass/vocal) and Yuhao (guitar/vocal) are creating music to escape within, experimental pop songs with a krautrock core and the retro-futuristic lounge vibes of Stereolab before them. Having sent files back and forth, they created their debut, a fun listen with programmed drums and vocals from both members, each occupying their own unique space. Yuhao’s vocals tend to be more verbose with a dry sense of wit, while Gou Gou’s vocals take a childlike sense of wonder and surrealist shape. It’s pairs well together as they commit to ever shifting styles.
“Dong Dong” is lead by Gou Gou’s vocals which fit perfectly over the kinetic groove. As synths and guitar bleep and bloop, the bass and electronic drums are thoroughly locked in. The vocals at times sound like a young Björk with a spirited whisper and commanding presence. Through repetition and strong waves of krautrock distortion, everything feels hypnotic, a welcome breath of fresh air just as the walls all feel as though they’re closing in.