Animal Collective Offshoot Croz Boyce Signals a Rise in Instrumental Side Projects
The announcement of Croz Boyce, a new instrumental duo featuring Animal Collective’s Avey Tare (Dave Portner) and Geologist (Brian Weitz), isn’t just a new release; it’s a sign of a growing trend within the music industry. Musicians, particularly those with established names, are increasingly exploring instrumental side projects, often as a creative outlet separate from the demands of their primary bands. Their debut album is set for release on May 8 via Domino.
The Appeal of Instrumental Exploration
For artists deeply embedded in vocal-centric or lyrically-driven genres, instrumental work offers a unique space for experimentation. It allows a focus on texture, rhythm, and sonic landscapes without the constraints of narrative. Croz Boyce, for example, blends electric and acoustic string instruments, synthesizers, and percussion, as highlighted by Domino Music. This approach is mirrored by other artists seeking to redefine their creative boundaries.
Remote Collaboration and the Future of Music Creation
The creation of Croz Boyce was notably a remote process, with Portner and Weitz recording their parts in Asheville, North Carolina and Washington, D.C., respectively. This reflects a broader shift in music production, accelerated by recent global events, towards decentralized collaboration. Artists are leveraging technology to overcome geographical limitations, fostering new creative partnerships, and workflows. The album was mixed by Josh Dibb (Deakin), also of Animal Collective, further emphasizing this collaborative spirit.
Paying Homage and Finding Inspiration in Loss
The duo’s name, “Croz Boyce,” is a direct tribute to the late David Crosby, who passed away in 2023. This act of naming reflects a growing trend of artists acknowledging their influences and finding inspiration in the legacies of those who came before them. It’s a way of honoring musical heritage while simultaneously forging a new path.
The Broader Animal Collective Landscape
This project arrives alongside continued activity from other Animal Collective members. Avey Tare released his solo record 7s in 2023, and Geologist debuted his own album, Can I Get a Pack of Camel Lights?, in January. This proliferation of solo and side projects demonstrates a healthy creative ecosystem within the band, allowing individual members to pursue distinct artistic visions.
Tracklist Teases a Diverse Sonic Palette
The tracklist for the self-titled album suggests a diverse sonic palette. Titles like “Hanging Out With a Blueberry Pop,” “Towson Acid,” and “Banana Pudding” hint at a blend of playful experimentation and atmospheric soundscapes. The lead single, “Hanging Out With a Blueberry Pop,” features a music video directed by professional snorkeler Joseph Ricketts, adding another layer of intrigue to the project.
FAQ
- What is Croz Boyce? Croz Boyce is an instrumental duo formed by Avey Tare and Geologist of Animal Collective.
- When will the Croz Boyce album be released? The self-titled album will be released on May 8.
- Who mixed the Croz Boyce album? Josh Dibb (Deakin) of Animal Collective mixed the album.
- What inspired the name Croz Boyce? The name is a reference to the late David Crosby.
Did you realize? The music video for “Hanging Out With a Blueberry Pop” features footage of manatees, showcasing an unexpected intersection of music and marine life.
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