The past twelve months have been a whirlwind for our boy FKJ. Around this time last year, we were vibing out to his "Skyline" visuals ahead of his anticipated full-length debut French Kiwi Juice. Unsurprisingly, the project was very well received, leading to a successful tour that took him all over the world. During his travels, he managed to squeeze in a few jam sessions with some of our favorite artists, resulting in more new music aside from album. We were blown away by the sheer awesomeness of his "Tadow" collaboration with Masego. For his latest studio jam, he teamed up with Canadian production wiz Pomo (who actually toured with FKJ earlier this year in Australia) for a new song called "Lucky Star."
Shot on location at Red Bull Studios Los Angeles, the live recording was filmed by directing duo Mosss. The decidedly funky groove is an enjoyable peek at the magic that takes place when artists link up and let loose. Joined by frequent Pomo cohort Danny McKinnon on guitar, the trio's chemistry is undeniable as they proceed to give us what we need. At times, the Moog-driven tune gave us laid back hints of Central Line's classic fave "Walking Into Sunshine." Employing various types of keys, synth and programmed drums, the song maintains our interest with a constant flow of stanky soul. Simultaneously futuristic and retro-leaning, FKJ's vocoder-assisted vocals help jettison the track to another realm as he sings, "My lucky star, you've been so fine / Don't go to far / Stay by my side."
Mosss provides further context into the artistic process, explaining, "FKJ and Pomo laid out a rough foundation on rhythm and bass lines but everything was kept loose to allow room for improvisation. Our filming approach mirrored this free-form style of jamming. Nothing was predetermined because we wanted to give an organic and immersive experience to match their inspirations....The camera movements were reactive—a detailed response to rhythm, time and space."
Watch the making of "Lucky Star" below and keep your fingers crossed that FKJ and Pomo will release it as an official single in the near future. In the meantime, stream/download French Kiwi Juice and keep up with FKJ on Twitter and Instagram. Pomo's skills can also be heard on his latest remix – an electric flip of Hall & Oates' "I Can't Go For That (No Can Do)" – as well as Jodie Abacus's latest single "Meet Me in the Middle." Visit his SoundCloud page for more grooves.
