If you haven’t already fallen in love with NYC outfit MICHELLE‘s carefree pop, their warm harmonies and serotonin-filled choruses, it’s time to get up to speed. The sextet’s first album ‘Heatwave’ (2018) garnered fans with its genre-bending approach to pop, punctured by the unique sonic nuances and influences brought to the table by each member. MICHELLE’s sophomore album ‘AFTER DINNER, WE TALK DREAMS’ follows in a similar vain, coating intimate lyricism in lithe percussion and bright synth moments.
To celebrate the release of the record, we asked the band fill us in on the records that have shaped their hybrid soundscapes.
Outkast — ‘The Love Below’ (2003)
Jamie: This album feels like the ’90s answer to Stevie Wonder in the ’70s and Prince in the ’80s. The synth sounds are impeccable, the guitars sound like the greatest guitar player ever discovering their instrument, and the vocals manage to get stuck in your head without ever sounding like they’re trying to. This was my high school bus ride anthem, and every time I return to it, I hear new sounds, new influence, and new love.
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Judee Sill — ‘Judee Sill’ (1971)
Sofia: Her songwriting is just the most beautiful. There’s a tenderness in her music that is so inspiring. As a band, we’re as big on production as we are with songwriting, and this Judee record reminds us all of how important intricate songwriting is. We also just love a classic ’70s vibe.
Amy Winehouse — ‘Back to Black’ (2006)
Jamee: I grew up listening to this album, and it always felt timeless to me. Amy sings with so much emotion and vulnerability, which is something that has inspired me a lot as a vocalist. Her lyricism is so poetic and every song on the album tells a story. Amy is truly one of the greats.
Beach House — ‘Teen Dream’ (2010)
Emma: I remember hearing this album for the first time in high school. There’s a reason so many people feel so grand and weightless to this music. Now it’s a standard for any drive through a sunset or through stubborn traffic — very nostalgic, very full.
Stevie Wonder — ‘Songs In The Key Of Life’ (1976)
Jamee: Stevie Wonder has been a staple in all six of our musical upbringings. His iconic discography has influenced us all as musicians and songwriters. Personally, I have so many positive associations with Stevie Wonder’s music, and I’ve made so many wonderful memories throughout the years while listening to his music. One of my favourite memories was celebrating the 45th anniversary of ‘Songs In The Key Life’ while on our very first MICHELLE tour, singing and reminiscing throughout the album. We love you, Stevie!
Watch MICHELLE’s new video for “Pose”, from their new record, here: