by Jonathan Bannister (@j_utah)
Justin Moyer is no stranger to a solid groove. If you’re a fan of any of the bands he’s been a part of (El Guapo, Supersystem, Edie Sedgwick, Antelope, S PRCSS, Puff Pieces) then you’ll find a lot to love in his latest group Light Beams.
Light Beams began in 2015 when Moyer started jamming with Sam Lavine, the longtime drummer of D.C. hip-hop mainstays the Cornel West Theory. They, along with bassist Arthur Noll, create polyrhythmic 80s-era freestyle influenced music they might call “zap-tone” or “block rock.” Samplers, timbales, bass, and drums all combine to create straight up infectious dance music. You’ll find yourself compelled to move unless you are listening wrong.
"Grow Pt. II (for PJ Harvey)" is the latest single from their upcoming self-titled debut, out September 22 on Don Giovanni Records. Lavine and Noll make a hell of a rhythm section. Their groove is tight and attacking, going hard for the full length of the song. It’s unrelenting in its infectious jam. Moyer comes in with his signature staccato attack, barking out lyrics to the beat. Word is he cues the samples off a drum pad instead of a laptop so he can go between it and the percussion elements with ease. It’s three minutes and nine seconds that makes for an instant party starter. You’re gonna want to hit repeat.