Julian Jasper’s musical foundation has something of a connection to the practically defunct chillwave movement, except that his more straightforward approach to songwriting emphasizes clarity over obscurity. The LA-via-San Diego bedroom recorder’s first single, "2 AM, Chinatown", is sung from the perspective of an observer who’s taking it all in, acclimating to his surroundings. It’s also upbeat dance pop as if coming from an old soul, handled with a muzak-flavored sophistication that gives a welcome exuberance to his more introspective inclinations.
Jasper’s first 7", "2 AM, Chinatown / I Don’t Mind", is out now via Misra Records. – Juan Rodríguez