Seafoam Walls at Webster Hall (photo by Kevin McGann)
This past week, Miami’s Seafoam Walls brought their self-described brand of Caribbean jazzgaze to Webster Hall for four nights. I was lucky enough to catch the first night for FTA and get lost in the chill electronic, dreamy soundscape that was equally matched by the hazy, smokey vibe at Webster that night.
Founded by Jayan Bertrand, the music incorporates the sounds of his Haitian heritage along with elements of jazz, R&B, indie rock and dream pop and layers them in a way that’s genre defying. Their full length 2021 debut, XVI (Daydream Library Series), perfectly illustrates that with songs like “AI” and “You Can’t Have Your Cake and Ego Too (Happy Birthday)” and their dreamy vocals, syncopated beats, and flange-tinged guitar.
Joining Bertrand onstage were Josue Vargas working the electronic drum pads, Dion Kerr on guitar and multi-instrumentalist Koa Ho on bass (filling in for original bassist, Joshua Ewers). Each of them—having had years of writing, producing, and playing experience—put on a show that was tight, yet also fun, funky, and loose. Another highlight was single “Dependency,” reminding us that “the only thing definite is that we’re not infinite,” a sentiment that always lights a fire under my ass; Bertrand and company were there to remind me of it.
Seafoam Walls are enjoying an extended run of shows opening for Unknown Mortal Orchestra so look up dates for this tour and don’t miss an opportunity to check out Miami’s best.
Scroll down for pics of the show (photos by Kevin McGann)
SEAFOAM WALLS
