Indie pop and hip-hop might make strange bedmates on paper, but in practice they have intriguing potential, as glimpsed on New York based trio CON VOS’ sophomore release, “Coast.” Boasting airy, ’80s-inspired production and the inviting vocals of Irish singer/songwriter Sorcha Richardson, “Coast” unexpectedly breaks into a central rap section courtesy of New Jersey rap duo Fortunate Ones, an unexpected counterpoint to persistent, four-on-the-floor drums and Drive-soundtrack melodies. It’s an intriguing look at a vision just beyond the bounds of expectation, a blend of hip-hop and electronic pop that’s a bit less sunny than, for example, Drake’s “Hold On, We’re Going Home,” milking synthesizers for their icily evocative power.
“Coast” still feels a bit raw, but provides an interesting marriage of genres that suggests further enjoyable returns to come.
