Chromeo, Peanut Butter Wolf

Synth pop revisionist duo Chromeo formed in Montreal in the early 21st century, a project of Audio Research honchos Dave One and Pee Thug (news flash: not their given names). Dave handled the electronics; Pee was the frequently processed vocalist. From the beginning, Chromeo made it clear that artful detachment, cheesy electro-funk breakdowns, and gleaming plastic beats -- not serious intent or aggressive musical regime change -- were the name of their well-dressed game. The "Destination Overdrive" single appeared in late 2003, complete with the tingling B-side "Needy Girl" (a ringer for Yaz's "Situation") and an ever-so-hip DFA remix; the She's in Control LP dropped from Vice in early February 2004. The duo issued two mixes, 2005's Un Joli Mix Pour Toi and 2006's Ce Soir, On Danse, while gigging and working on their second album. Fancy Footwork, which boasted a slicker sound and poppier songwriting, arrived in summer 2007. ~ Johnny Loftus, All Music Guide