The enigmatic Finnish/Swedish duo Pepe Deluxé has released their latest single, “Saddle That Wind,” a vibrant track that marries the ambiance of spaghetti westerns with a contemporary beat. Featuring pop vocal elements, engaging melodies, and intricate backing vocals, this well-crafted piece showcases the duo’s ability to blend interesting vibes into a cohesive soundscape.
“Saddle That Wind” stands out as a 60s-infused track from Pepe Deluxé’s forthcoming album, Comix Sonix. It features a notable collaboration with the lead singer of Finnish progressive rock band Von Hertzen Brothers on harmonies and Boi Crompton, an ex-Gulf War veteran turned singer-songwriter, providing lead vocals. His delivery, reminiscent of Kurt Cobain’s lounge-singing style, pairs seamlessly with jazz giant Teppo Mäkynen on drums and Mr. Fastfinger on guitar, whose mind-bending solo employs the unique ‘Electric Salami Slicer’ effect created by the duo themselves. The song’s poetic lyrics, inspired by the Age of Enlightenment, convey an uplifting message celebrating human achievement and the boundless potential of innovation.
Pepe Deluxé, known for their retro and futuristic sound that transcends genres, space, and time, continues to push musical boundaries. From their late-90s dance hits to their evolution into musical archaeologists, they have consistently surprised and delighted fans. Their past projects, such as the conceptual album Queen of the Wave and their soundtrack for the popular mobile game Angry Birds Go!, highlight their diverse creative pursuits. “Saddle That Wind” is a testament to their eccentric brilliance and a precursor to their newalbum, The Phantom Cabinet Vol. 1.