Artist Discovery Series: Sunsquabi

A recent Grateful Dead listening binge introduced me to a whole new world of music: Jam bands. Through this binge, I also discovered The String Cheese Incident and Sunsquabi, finding the latter through their collaboration, “Top Down.” Sunsquabi is a Denver-based live electronic band that is highly influenced by the genres of jazz and funk. Shredding guitars meet funky basslines and dynamic keyboards. Creating timeless tracks inspired by numerous eras. Sunsquabi has also collaborated with GRiZ on several releases. A representation of their genre symmetry and alignment. Guitars, sax and synths collide in I Don’t Mind, a fluid and multilayered collaboration. Sunsquabi has also collaborated with artists like Russ Liquid and Iya Terra, further expanding into reggae-tinged bops.

“Top Down” is an instrumental track featuring The String Cheese Incident. It has been on my replay list since first hearing it about two weeks ago and continues to blow my mind. It is a perfect mix of Jam Band and freeform electronic. The song features funk grooves and psychedelic guitars inspired by bands like Cream. Jazzy keyboards and synthesizers up the funk level, with a vibey bassline throughout. Sizzling transitions smoothly bridge track sections together throughout the track’s extended runtime. My personal favorite track section would have to be the riffs that can be found from 1:56 to 2:25. They start out subtle and gradually expand in length and scale. Rising and falling like a psychedelic elevator ride. The Fear And Loathing In Las Vegas inspired cover emphasizes these themes and captures the fun, improvisational nature of Jam Bands. “Top Down” is an immersive journey of a track that is worthy of focused and repeated listens.

“Cinnamon” (feat. Late Night Radio) is Sunsquabi’s most streamed song on Spotify with over 10 million plays. The song begins with choppy electronic instrumentals, liquid basslines, and subtle funk guitar. Late Night Radio’s soulful vocals compliment the track’s laid back, melodic nature. The second half of “Cinnamon” is a surreal trip through time and space. Groovy synths and guitars reach new heights before returning the listener to the intro loop. Ending with the perfect blend of funk and psychedelia.

“LOVE ME LIKE CINNAMON!”

Sunsquabi is an incredible group that draws inspiration from numerous genres, all while bridging the gaps between them. Their incredible releases and live sets have made them a lasting force in the scene, while still continuing to up their game and production quality. Binge their music now for an unforgettable journey.

Connect with Sunsquabi: Facebook | Instagram | X | Spotify | SoundCloud