With the advent of and consequent obsession with synth-based production, subtly nuanced genres were able to proliferate from the seemingly monolithic musical fields we were accustomed to. Starting with the Moog Modular in the 60s, influencing groups like The Monkees and The Doors, and extending all the way to 2015 and the seemingly endless variations of vaporwave, synthesizers have undoubtedly made their mark on the music industry. Lockets, a Philly-based project headed by producer Todd Mendelsohn and vocalist Melissa Ricca, exemplifies many of the new sounds afforded by this technology. In a similar vain to Beach House, Lockets is a pop group whose affect, while bolstered by their lyrics and Ricca’s enchanting vocal quality, is just as much attributable to the ethereal, hazy production elements. Lockets will opening for chillwavers Keep Shelly In Athens tonight at Johnny Brenda’s, kicking off a night of relaxed, beautifully-produced synth-based tunes. Make sure you get a chance to catch both bands. Johnny Brenda’s, 1201 Frankford Ave., 8pm, $12, 21+ – Blake Oetting
