‘Wait. What. Now?’ – SHYGUY release their debut album

SHYGUY confront their introverted nature by adopting vibrant personas, as a result, this introverted collaboration evolves into an extroverted expression, highlighting the fusion of their artistic identities.

Musically their album showcases clusters of unconventional textures. ‘Wait, What. Now?’ features their dual debut single “I’m So Trash / Long Time”, with the self-deprecating humour of “I’m So Trash” balanced by the introspection of “Long Time”, all channelled through the lens of a beatmaker, bedroom producer approach to composition. Their second double single featured  “Ray Gun”, encapsulating the essence of nostalgia and the bittersweet longing for a time when everything felt new, and “Here She Comes” which captures the moment of reuniting with a loved one after a prolonged separation.  “Ray Gun”, born organically, resonates with themes of coming of age, evoking memories of childhood innocence, while “Here She Comes” likens the beloved individual to a personification of nature, drawing a parallel between human connection and the ever-changing seasons.

You can check out the video for “I’m So Trash” on our YouTube channel HERE

The duo met during their school years, discovering their shared love of music through playing in punk bands together, but their musical journey truly took flight when they reunited in college. SHYGUY draw inspiration from a diverse range of sources. Jackson’s upbringing exposed him to a rich musical tapestry, from Erykah Badu to The Smiths, and the artistry of Prince and Damon Albarn. Joe’s early influences included guitar-centric bands like Green Day, leading him to explore artists like Prince and Tame Impala, who created diverse music on their own terms.

Jackson, hailing from a family of artists and illustrators, initially ventured into music as a form of teenage rebellion. He picked up a bass guitar and soon discovered that music was his true calling. Inspired by the likes of J-Dilla and the LA Beat Scene, Jackson immersed himself in music production. On the other hand, Joe’s musical path began at the age of 11 when he self-taught himself the guitar. His fascination with the instrument’s capabilities and the desire to create his own music led him on a journey of self-discovery. Through the guidance of his guitar teacher, he delved into recording and production, setting the stage for his future endeavours.

Jackson explains, “I can’t imagine doing anything else. I come from a family of artists and have always felt that music is the most beautiful aspect of human culture. Writing music feels like a type of meditation or sanctuary for me. Ultimately, I want to create something that will move other people in the same way that some of the most personally influential records I listened to growing up moved me.”

Joe adds, “I’ve always been hugely inspired by other musical artists and the work they produce. Some songs are able to involve such strong emotions from me that I become inspired to try and replicate those feelings in my own music. Equally, I’ve always played music (primarily guitar) for the sake of enjoyment and therapy.”

SHYGUY’s journey includes notable experiences and collaborations. Jackson has supported artists like KRS-ONE and Pete Rock & CL Smooth as a solo act, while their collective efforts have been featured in a compilation album released by their art collective, ‘Lusty Arts,’ in collaboration with Nottingham’s MIMM (Music is my Motive) a community of music, fashion and art.