NYC and Seoul-based Yaeji’s tracks have been percolating on the house scene throughout 2017 (Yaeji’s killer rework of “Passionfruit” is exhibit A). Her latest single, a breathy and breathless deep house banger, sees the DJ/producer threatening a real breakthrough. Released by the LA/NYC music label GODMODE (who’ve been consistently dropping fire Yaeji tracks), “Last Breath” is a sonically fascinating haze-collage of Yaeji’s icy, wispy vocals merged with stylish, soulful synth and percussion touches. It all coheres beautifully. The vaguely tribal percussion really does the trick. Icing on the cake is the make-up tutorial video accompanying “Last Breath,” which reveals a sneakily brilliant media/self-awareness. Yaeji is no joke. -juan leon
