Crystal, the retro-futuristic Japanese synth duo, return today with a new track entitled “Ecco Funk” off their upcoming EP of the same name due out December 16th via Flau Records. Inspired in-part by Ecco the Dolphin (the 1992 video game for Sega Megadrive), the cut is also threaded throughout with cameo dialogue from Jones — the drug-addicted ex-military dolphin in William Gibson’s short story, “Johnny Mnemonic.”
The Tokyo-based synth-duo is comprised of members Ryota Miyake and Sunao Maruyama. Discovered early on by Gaspard Auge of Justice and the French producer Surkin, the pair would go on to play Sonar Festival, Rainbow Disco Club, as well as jamming with Thundercat at RBMA, collaborating with the likes of Matias Aguayo, Ikonika, and Teki Latex. Additionally, Flying Lotus invited them for his twitch program, Brainfeeder “The Hit.” Combining a love for classic retro acts like Yellow Magic Orchestra and Kraftwerk, the duo’s neon-colored nostalgia comes complete with modern dance floor sensibilities.
