In the music video for “Hoppe,” TEKE::TEKE looks like it’s performing in the unlikely, grungy, underground club in one of Japan’s gigantic metropolises. But this just enhances the vibe of a band that seems to have amalgamated Bossa Nova, classic Japanese folk pop, punk, funk, jazz and psychedelia. But really the footage was shot at Pow Wow in Montreal, Quebec where the band is based and by Samuel Woywitka and Sei Nakauchi Pelletier with animation flourishes by Maya Kuroki. The song goes in wild directions but maintains an infectious charm. In moments the music is reminiscent of something Prince might have done had he gone an indiepop route and worked with Fishbone to get there. In others Deee-Lite but rather than electro retro disco, trying its hand at ska and ending up somewhere weirder and more original. That the song seems to be about the folly of assuming anything is permanent and not in a constant state of flux suits the style well. Multiple manifestations these beautiful and endearing hybrid pop sounds can be head throughout the group’s 2023 album Hagata out now via Kill Rock Stars. Watch the video for “Hoppe” on YouTube and follow TEKE:TEKE at the links below.
Queen City Sounds and Art 
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