Yukkon – Two Way Street (2021)
The solo project of US-based singer-songwriter Tyler Connaghan, Yukkon draws together elements of Motown funk, dream-pop and indie-pop. Compared to the likes of Tame Impala, Magic City Hippies and Vacationer, Connaghan weaves sonic tapestries that are intoxicating in the soft edginess. Having performed with Gallo, Attic Empire and Wayfarers, as well as spending time producing television shows, the talented musician has experience in different areas of the entertainment industry; however, it is this infectious music project that has turned my head. One of the most recent additions to his discography is ‘Two Way Street’.
Following his track ‘Been A Long Time’, ‘Two Way Street’ showcases Connaghan’s versatility moving away from the upbeat retro-rock to a languid indie-pop sound. Combining laid-back guitars, drums and a Phil Bailey-esque falsetto, ‘Two Way Street’ tips you into a comfortable sonic bubble where you feel the heat warming you from head to toe – kind of like being at the beach on a perfect summer’s day. While the melodic arrangement definitely adds moving layers and textures, it is Connaghan’s vocals that show Yukkon is not to be pigeon-holed.
Soothing and easy to listen to, the melody charms our ears, but it is the lyricism that pushes us over the edge. Using a personal narrative with a mellow execution, Connaghan connects with audiences on a higher plane showing that we can take a step back to breathe in this highly strung, rat-race world. It is these types of relaxing songs that ensure we take a moment to appreciate the good we have in the present instead of focusing on the negative.
Engaging, intriguing and emotive, ‘Two Way Street’ has a chilled-out vibe with sincere sentimentality. I cannot wait to see what else Connaghan has in store for 2022.
For more from Yukkon check out his Facebook, Instagram and Spotify.
