- Bryon Harris
Loops & Loops - "Not Yet"
Review by Daniel Deprè
“Not Yet” is a modern-sounding indie-rock track that is infused with the musicality of doo-wop songs from the ’50s. There is a hazy and washed-out vibe throughout the song that gives it an infectious and strong atmosphere. It’s the kind of song that the listener can get lost in, feeling its deep level of emotion and analyzing its unique soundscape. The combination of instruments is delightfully unusual, and the vocal style furthers the idiosyncratic environment that makes up “Not Yet.”
Lyrically, writer Peter Bogolub is reflecting on New York City during the pandemic. His writing reflects on New York as if it’s a character in a book, and he does so with poetic intent.
“Folks around here, never walk that slow, they always seem, to be on the go.”
There is something cryptic and mysterious about his lyrics, which likely speaks to the nature of New York as well. His lyrics don’t give too much away and leave a lot of room for you to extract a meaning that is special to you.
“There are times when the city holds on to its breath, and though you’ve been after me, you ain't catch me yet, not yet.”
The instrumentation of “Not Yet” features a ragtag team of instruments that creates a bright and colorful atmosphere. The organ, acting as a sort of synth pad, is the primary sound heard throughout the song. This already gives “Not Yet” its unique flare as the organ is not playing in its traditional style. Supporting the organ is a simple but steady drumbeat, bass player, ukulele, and guitar. The addition of the ukulele gives this song an unexpected ray of sunshine, ukulele just always sounds so happy. Peter Bogolub’s vocals are raspy and languid, creating a smooth and catchy singing style. The effects of the vocals help his voice sound even bigger and ethereal, adding yet another unique color to the arrangement. “Not Yet” is a chill and interesting indie rock song with cryptic lyrics and catchy melodies.”
About Loops & Loops
Pete Bogolub has been making music for over the last 20 years. Starting with a serious shoegaze phase, Pete played bass and guitar in a band in college in a band called Maybe Drowning Soon. The band was heavily influenced by My Bloody Valentine and Slowdive, playing very loud shows, but sadly not recording any music. Moving to New York City in 200, Pete and his former bandmate, Joshua Krause, continued to make music under the same name. Due to the noise level limitations of living in an apartment, the music took on electronic drum beats. Joshua decided to focus on the visual arts and Pete began making music on his own. From there, a solo project under the name The Sems was born where two albums and three singles were released. Playing quite a few venues in New York City, The Sems lasted for three years as various members of the band decided to go in different directions. Pete continued to record and make music, but did not release music again until nearly 14 years later. It was during the quarantine that Pete discovered and experimented with lo-fi music. The less restrictive environment made for quite a few songs. Discovering that music could be self-released through Distrokid, Pete began releasing albums again. The newest album, fake face, is less of a lofi album and more of a return to the indie roots of such bands as Yo la Tengo and the magnetic fields.
Learn more on his website
Stream more music on Spotify