The Lo-Fi's - "Mindsweeper"

Things have changed for The Lo-Fi’s since I first interviewed them on the Look At My Records podcast back in July of 2017.  Most notably, the Union City-based band underwent some significant lineup changes in the year following our chat, including a shakeup that saw bassist Justin Viant assume duties as the band’s lead vocalist and frontman.  Despite altering their voice, quite literally, the band never lost a step, churning out several noteworthy singles, including “That’s It,”  and a fuzzy gem of an EP entitled The Movement Of Speed.

The band is now part of a young, burgeoning lo-fi psychedelic pop scene in New York City that includes a number of talented bands like DA Pop, Averne, Coco Verde, Wild Sleep, and more. Many of these acts recently banded together for a special COVID Compilation benefitting Heart to Heart International.  The Lo-Fi’s contributed the compilation’s lead track, “Mindsweeper,” which you can get right now by pre-ordering it ahead of its May 22nd release date. 

Those nostalgic for the days of chillwave will enjoy the airy vibes of “Mindsweeper.” The song emerges from what sounds like a crackly AM radio, transitioning forcefully to an assertive bassline. The briskly paced track features hazy, drawling vocals that are offset by buoyant, surf-y guitars, creating an atmospheric aesthetic reminiscent of early Beach Fossils and Wild Nothing.

Again, you can pre-order the compilation via Bandcamp.  It includes great previously unreleased tunes from Coco Verde, Ryan Laetari, Royer Zamu, JW Francis, and more!

Photo by Muhstee