Instupendo

#12: Instupendo - Boys by Girls EP (self-released)
"I feel like a princess when I'm around you," coos Instupendo's Aidan Peterson on his excellent single "Cinderella", and the effect is transfixing. Mixing dreamy synth sounds with lo-fi drum machines, Instupendo's third EP is a shimmering fever dream of a pop record, one that is as romantic as it is self-deprecating. Amidst the lush sonic gossamer, Peterson expresses love in dynamic gender fluid ways, turning the lyrical pop tropes on their head with casual disregard. "I feel like a bride to be / It's like something off of TV," he sings on the stuttering Bjork-like "Antidote", sometimes using lengthy instrumental passages to sell an emotion or intention, covering a lot of cathartic ground in scant 20 minutes. It's a record that is full of longing and full of questions, but by the time he wonders whether or not he left his earrings on a lover's bed, we're caught up in the drama of it all. Instupendo doesn't have all the answers, but the joy is in joining him on his journey to find them. - Popmatters

I’m not usually anxious about attending shows alone, but for Madeon’s Good Faith Live tour, I was especially bummed all my friends had left the city for Thanksgiving. Going solo, I rolled into the show in an awkward heap – hair sopping wet, back glued to the wall as I charged my phone on 15%, a Stella in hand while I made uncomfortable eye contact with dudes in G Jones and Porter Robinson merch. I texted my editor a dumb question I knew I didn’t need to ask, just for the sake of looking at a screen. It should be fine, he kindly typed back. Just have fun! I chuckled aloud to no one, secretly thankful when Instupendo graced the stage right on time.

Instupendo, dressed as a soft boi dream with flowing blonde hair, was the vision of mellow I needed at that moment. Noticeably shy (which made me relax – bless him), he moved comfortably into his setup, suddenly brightened by a small screen of misty shapes and colours and textures. As the background morphed into red stars and silhouettes (and at one point, a pair of very serene skiers), Instupendo sunk deeply into his music and let his signature twinkly sounds do the rest. Everything he did was with care, like the way he touched the keys or playfully wrapped himself in the microphone cord, the audience giggling at his sweetness. His speaking voice was deeper than I expected, but it dripped with kindness – he gave a polite thank you to the audience after every single song he performed. Instupendo had been brought in as the calm before the storm, the gentle voice to cool the crowd before the intensity of Madeon’s set. It worked – I felt infinitely better.

Shortly after, the tiny screen we’d been watching grew twenty times in size: GOOD FAITH flashed across the stage, and the roar from the crowd erupted like a stadium instead of a venue of 1300. Everything melted into a technicolor dream, and in the middle of it all stood Madeon as our fearless conductor, his fist held up high in the air. (continues at link) - Acid Stag

The Talkhouse EP premiere, plus a conversation about it between Aidan Peterson's friends Lindsey Jordan (Snail Mail) and Roy Blair.

Lindsey Jordan: How do you know Aidan?

Roy Blair: Twitter. It was like two years ago, my friend Lontalius had just put me onto to his music and then like, the next day, Aidan tweeted “I wanna work with Roy Blair.” We talked a bit and I sent him some ideas I was working on for [my album] Cat Heaven. It was wild, ’cause he was able to send back these synths and piano lines really fast, and everything was kind of genius. Some of the stuff we made ended up in Grow Up and GTA. What about you? How did you meet Aidan?

Lindsey: I guess we met backstage at the Clairo show in Philly. He also saved me from a car that night… king of saving my life [Laughs]. He opened for me a few months later in DC. And met my grandma. And now Boys by Girls — I’m so excited for it!

Roy: Me too. I feel like the project is very singular. It sounds like “a sound,” you know? It’s very electronic. But in a cool way, like it’s distinct from a lot of other electronic music out there. Especially from the kids our age.

Lindsey: Yeah, after hearing his early stuff and seeing his set in DC, I didn’t know what to expect, but I was really captivated when I heard the singles. Same with the EP. I like that one, “Earring.” Shit goes.

Roy: “Antidote” and “Pinch” are sick. The synthwork in particular is special. The vocals are sort of used like an instrument. I love that style of producing though… it’s impressive for someone who hasn’t put out anything with his own voice before. And the whole EP is consistent. Its crazy when someone puts together five or more songs and it’s consistent across the board. It’s a moment.

Lindsey: Yeah, thematically, the songs work really well together. It’s honest and charming. It’s hard to pull that off in songwriting without coming off as fake or too cool. I really think the lyrics and flow of the record are put together in a way that seems effortlessly cool — not that it’s an effortless thing, but it’s cool when things come off as effortless… takes lot of skills. And a lot of talent — it just shows that you’re really working for something, it’s rare.

Roy: I think Aidan’s pulling from a place aesthetically and chord-wise that a lot of people aren’t really pulling from right now. The songs all exist in the same universe and space. Loveless by MBV does that. There’s a sonic thread running through the EP that most of my favorite projects have. You can get lost in it.

Lindsey: It’s really beautiful and dreamy, and the lyrics are really witty and charming; it fits together nicely. I love working on production in studios when I have someone working with me, but I know so little about doing it myself. I’m more of a songwriter so I pay attention to the songwriting. I don’t want to overuse “dreamy,” but it feels loose and flowy and dreamy and regal. Even the aesthetic of the EP, it all feels aligned.

Roy: Definitely aligned. Last time I was in NY I went to his dorm and he had basically curated everything in it. He had little magazine pieces cut out and everything was in shades of color from the cover of the EP. It reminded me of this video where Bjork is giving a tour of her house and shows all these little trinkets and drawings she’s made. I guess some people just love continuously making shit [Laughs]. I wish I was more like that.

Lindsey: The cover art is really beautiful. I’m excited to see the project come out and catch a show on the tour. It’s an exciting EP!

Roy: Agreed. - Talkhouse

Instupendo makes “music video in your head” songs – pieces that tap into your thoughts and expose you, and suddenly you’re constructing imaginary scenarios about a person you used to know or a feeling that no longer exists. - Acid Stag

NYC-based artist Instupendo, real name Aidan Peterson, has previously worked with Rostam and Toro Y Moi. Both of those collaborators forward-thinking approach to pop-leaning melodies and electronics are evident in "Antidote," a song about disappearing completely.

Amid a pillow-soft beat, Peterson's looped vocals become hypnotic as he sings about keeping his head down and avoiding the gaze of another. "Antidote" is a contradiction, an anti-social song that you want to share with all your friends.

Speaking to The FADER via email, Peterson said:"'Antidote' is a song about trying to be invisible, or anonymous, in public. In the city, there’s always a weird moment when you catch someone looking at you in passing on the streets, so I try my best to avoid that phenomenon completely. I usually just stare blankly into the distance hoping nobody makes eye contact. The lyric 'I feel like a bride to be' is a reference to walking down the aisle at a wedding, how everyone’s looking at you."

Instupendo's Boys By Girls EP is out on June 5. - The FADER

It’s strange to think about how Toro Y Moi‘s 'Outer Peace' came out three months ago. One of the album highlights is the closing track “50-50” which features indie electronic artist Instupendo a.k.a. Aidan Peterson. Today, we’re premiering his new single “Cinderella” fresh off his forthcoming Boys By Girls EP.


The lush track is a synthesized symphony that belongs on the soundtrack of a millennial fairytale that takes place in a digital purgatory. The Philadelphia-bred artist further elaborated on the charming song in an email to Highsnobiety.

“‘Cinderella’ is about the feeling of being a princess around someone—that you’re both protected and respected,” he said. “It’s like nothing else in the whole world. I’m still pretty new to these feelings, but I wanted to write something that tried to describe this.”

Boys By Girls explores themes that touch on “state of mind, emotion, and identity.” He adds, “I’ve always felt closer to girls, like I can be myself with them without having to conform to the kinds of expectations guys often project on each other. The stories and feelings I’m conveying through many of the songs on this project are about being able to just ‘be,’ to be the boy I am when I’m around girls.”

Instupendo’s EP is officially slated to drop on June 5. Until then, stream the full song below. - Highsnobiety

Modern music, especially electronic-based music, has a tendency to try to pull you in as soon as possible. This is of course not surprising, or even a bad thing, considering the incredible explosion of new music over the last decade or so, combined with the nascent expectation of instant gratification in our daily lives. But it certainly puts music that ignores this tendency on shaky ground — will compositional patience pay off, or will it end up devoured by the deluge of new music that presents itself to us every single day? For ‘Persona’, Instupendo doesn’t seem to care about any of that.

Instead of trying to lure you in, Persona creates its own emotional space, perfectly content in its own world. If you blink you’ll miss it, but if you approach it with care and attention, suddenly it’s impossible to ignore its delicate, detuned chords calling out to you. Winter is a season to slow down, and hopefully reflect thoughtfully on our lives. Instupendo, inspired by the season for this track, shows us why it’s worth it to do exactly that. - ADSR

Fresh on the heels of a feature on Toro Y Moi‘s newest LP, Instupendo wastes no time in debuting his first original of 2019. “Persona” sees the NY-based, Philadelphia-bred producer reexamine the sound that originally put him on the map, while simultaneously exploring new techniques to freshen his approach.

Released by Urban Outfitters as a part of their New Sounds Series, “Persona’s” light, wandering melody will invoke feelings of nostalgia for longtime fans. The track’s second half offers added experimentation, with re-sampled effervescence and a fuzzy bass keeping the listener committed.

Following a fall spent on tour in support of like-minded counterparts, Ryan Hemsworth and Giraffage, and hints at a new direction evident in “Persona,” Instupendo is poised to continue his upward swing well into 2019. - Dancing Astronaut

Adapt or die, the saying goes. But there’s no real caveat to that, no timespan to the demand, and it’s blatantly something Chaz Bear keeps in mind.

His seventh album as Toro Y Moi finds him tweaking and fine tuning his sound. Those cutely thin vocals only occasionally get the vocoder-esque treatment, and his woozy, summertime production remains rampant across the album’s ten tracks. But there’s a new, all-pervading feeling beneath this familiarity, one of self doubt, of a fear of ageing and even a creeping boredom of the material world which lends Chaz’s occasionally matter-of-fact delivery a potency. Songs fall into two camps - dancefloor oriented upbeat ones with choruses and vocal snippets that lodge in your memory (‘Fading’, ‘Freelance’ and the sexually cynical ‘Ordinary Pleasure’), and downright slow jams.

Of the latter... ambient producer Instupendo’s work on closer ‘50-50’ provokes some of the most melancholy, if mildly unsettling moods across the whole album. - DIY Mag

Rising indie producer Instupendo has had an inspiring year that landed him a remix provided by Slow Magic. Out now via Majestic Casual Records, Instupendo has offered up his luscious indie soundscape to sakehands‘ “GOODBYE FOREVER”. Soft piano chords and delicate percussion combine to craft an airy, atmospheric dreamworld that is absolutely breathtaking. Instupendo has outdone himself with this remix. - Run the Trap

We’re currently obsessing over this new remix from electronic producer Instupendo. The track is a remix of rising British alt-pop newcomer TS Graye's 'Take Notes' and highlights some of Instupendo’s euphoric and melodic production style. Whether you’re looking for something to tug at your heart or something to just kick back and vibe out too, Instupendo has a marvelous style that you won’t be able to let go of.

We’re excited to see where the rest of the year takes the young electronic producer but until then, I guess we’ll just have to keep this gem on repeat. Enjoy! - Gems & Secrets

Today we have the pleasure of introducing rising artist Instupendo to the site with a fresh new remix off his Faces I Know remix EP. Instupendo’s original track “Fleur” featuring Teen Daze is an indie electronic gem, and has now received an incredible new remix from Slow Magic we have the pleasure of premiering.

Philadelphia-based Instupendo has built up his name with mellow sound design and lush production, consistently putting out irresistible melodies that hit you right in the feels. 2018 has seen him opening for shallou, releasing his sophomore EP, joining Tourist and Jim-E Stack in remixing Rostam tracks, and now dropping the 'Faces I Know Remixed' package. He's definitely an artist to keep an eye on. His relaxing track “Fleur” has received just the perfect touch from Slow Magic, who always finds a way to add his bright, relaxing flavor to every track he touches. The dreamy remix will surely put anyone in a good mood so make sure to check it out below and enjoy! - ThisSongIsSick

From his humble beginnings as a viral star rising out of SoundCloud, Instupendo is in the midst of a banner 2018. The soon-to-be NYC-based producer debuted his second EP, Faces I Know, followed shortly after by a visual accompaniment, and parlayed a remix of Rostam‘s “Half-Light” into a supporting slot at Brooklyn Steel.

Instupendo is now up for the remix treatment himself, as Slow Magic, Owsey, and Laxcity take on the Faces I Know‘s “Fleur,” “Boy,” and “Clementine,” respectively.

Slow Magic turns the energy up a few notches on ” Fleur” with undulating synths and crisp percussion fills, while the track remains steeped in Instupendo’s trademark haze. Owsey’s take on “Boy” veers more sharply into different direction, adding vocal chops for new melodic lines, and capacious synths and drums that almost make the remix a guarantee to be played at big festival spots under an icosahedron.

Finally, Laxcity flips “Clementine” entirely, at times a stuttering, fluttering track bound by the original’s arpeggios before smoothing out a spacey atmospheric exploration anchored by a rumbling low end.

It’s a testament to Instupendo’s originals and their sound songwriting that each can be flipped in entirely different directions, and similarly that the remixers themselves took such disparate routes to produce new takes that pay homage to the originals and yet remain wholly their own. - Dancing Astronaut

A frequent subject of coverage here at NEST, Instupendo makes gorgeous, ethereal and downtempo electronic music, stirring emotions within his listeners with haunting melodies and delicate ambiance. Although his music is emotive and powerful on its own, he seems to be an artist whose sonic output is at its best when accompanied by visuals. His music video for “Homme” – off his debut EP Friend of a Friend – for instance, encapsulated all of the feelings of melancholy and introspection which the song emitted, and amplified them tenfold.

Premiered via Majestic Casual, this latest visual accompaniment to Instupendo’s music – specifically, his sophomore EP, Faces I Know – is an absolute tour de force: 15+ minutes of stunning videography, full to the brim with muted storytelling and subtext; not to mention some of the most calming and beautiful music you will ever hear.

Watch the full video above. Faces I Know is available everywhere here. - Nest HQ

“What’s Good” is Pitchfork’s new weekly playlist, curated by Pitchfork Founder and Editor-in-Chief Ryan Schreiber, bringing you highlights from new releases across all genres. It’s updated every Tuesday on Spotify and Apple Music with new songs released over the course of the previous weeks. Listen below.

”What’s Good” Playlist 6/26/18:

79.5: “Terrorize My Heart (Disco Dub)”
Moon King: “Apartment Fire”
Lizzo: “Boys”
Mitski: “Nobody”
Miya Folick: “Stock Image”
Gallant: “Doesn’t Matter” [ft. ASAP Ferg]
Georgia Anne Muldrow: “Overload”
Teyana Taylor: “Rose in Harlem”
Meek Mill: “Stay Woke” [ft. Miguel]
Freddie Gibbs: “Death Row” [ft. 03 Greedo]
Jacquees: “Red Light” [ft. DeJ Loaf]”
Peter Cottontale: “Forever Always” [ft. Rex Orange County, Chance the Rapper, Daniel Caesar, Madison Ryann Ward and Yebba]
Nicolas Godin: “Pigalle Darling Club”
Kamasi Washington: “Connections”
Nine Inch Nails: “Over and Out”
Gang Gang Dance: “Kazuashita”
Steve Hauschildt: “Saccade” [ft. Julianna Barwick]
Galcher Lustwerk: “N*ggas”
Fever Ray: “Wanna Sip (Olof Dreijer Remix)”
SOPHIE: “Immaterial”
Death Grips: “Death Grips Is Online”
Rostam: “Half-Light (Instupendo Remix)” [ft. Kelly Zutrau]
Emma Louise: “Wish You Well” - Pitchfork

I still stand by my statement that Rostam’s debut Half-Light is one of the most underrated albums of last year. It’s such an incredibly beautiful album that showcases his care and attention to music. To celebrate, take a listen to instupendo’s remix of the title track, which features Kelly Zutrau on vocals. instupendo takes the already feathery light track to a whole other level - Rostam’s vocals are somehow even airier and there’s such a delicateness to the instrumentation that’ll make you feel like you’re floating through the air. You still get the original orchestral build that Rostam composed and I love that tight, clean finish on the remix. Absolutely breathtaking. - Abduction Radiation

Instupendo is an artist I had not previously heard of, however that doesn’t take anything away from the quality of music. It’s light, soothing, dreamy and well thought out with a hint of melancholy. Having a string of very heavily played tracks on SoundCloud, with the most played clocking in 1.5mil, he’s an artist whose music is resonating with the audience.

His latest EP, ‘Faces I Know’, is as described above. You listen and you’re whisked away into cloud 9, pure musical ecstasy. The opening track ‘fleur’ features vocals from Teen Daze and is just magical. It was released as a single first and has copped a lot of love in soundcloud already. It really set the mood for the EP and got you ready for heaven mood. The gentle and soft tones were amazing and the slightly distorted vocal just completed the track. Up next is ‘sunny’ which is a bit more glitchy, but still equally as dreamy, the kick in it the so well placed in the mix to keep you just above dream state that the synths and percussion takes you to.

Rolling in soft comes ‘clementine’ with a more acoustic feeling intro, yet leading into the synth phase real quick. It has an almost “Legend of Zelda” feel to it, where you’ve just busted out the best Ocarina tune you can muster. It’s so 90’s synth pop, yet remaining incredibly relevant. I dig it. Getting in as a single release as well we have ‘boy’, gently creeping into your ears and whispering sweet nothings. The string synths are incredibly well placed in the mix and really made this track for me, the structure as well is near flawless. It’s an incredibly well thought out track that keeps a very organic and natural feel to it in its flow.

Tying things up is an instrumental version of ‘fleur’. It’s an interesting transition if you listen to it next to the original version, as it’s much more on a dream world than with the vocals attached. All in all I really dug this EP, it would go perfectly with a nice glass of red and some interesting conversations about reality. The mans got talent, cannot deny. - Acid Stag

Forty-four seconds into ‘Fleur,’ Canadian ambient artist/producer Teen Daze (aka Jamison Isaak) sings a repeated refrain of “This season’s not over / I fall into dreams without closing my eyes.” Set against a lush backdrop of washy pads, stargazed melodic flickers, and distant shuffling drums, it’s a blissful set-up for the three and a half odd minutes of relaxational dream pop excellence that follows. In turn, ‘Fleur’ serves as an equally buoyant introduction to the rest of Faces I Know, 17-year-old Philadelphia-based electronic musician and visual artist Instupendo’s sophomore EP.

Inspired by contemporary electronic/club musicians like Bonobo, Sam Gellaitry, Tennyson, Tom Misch, Mr. Carmack, and the composers behind Japanese anime powerhouse Studio Ghibli, Instupendo (government name: Aidan Peterson) got his start in music on SoundCloud in his early teens. In 2016, he started engaging with the commercial music streaming framework and caught a bevvy of playlist placements and blog coverage in the months that followed.

After releasing his debut EP Friend of Friend (which saw him collaborate with an array of internet friends including Lontalius and Benny Sings) last year, he went back to the drawing board. Instupendo began digging deep into songwriting, listening, and composition, dreaming up a set of instrumental songs so personal they almost became imaginary friends, before approaching Teen Daze to provide the single vocal on 'Faces I Know'. Here, he talks a bit about collaborating with Teen Daze on ‘Fleur,’ the visual arts practice that runs hand-in-hand with his musical work, and his thoughts on self-care, reflection, and introspection.

What did working with Teen Daze allow you to do with 'Fleur' that you couldn't have otherwise? When and how did you know this collaboration was going to make sense?

The collaboration on 'Fleur' came about pretty organically. I introduced myself to Jamison at SXSW last year when we were both performing in different showcases in the same venue. I’d come across one of his songs, ‘Cycles,’ and his vocals caught my attention. When I started writing ’Fleur,’ I thought his vocals would be a great fit, so I reached out with the instrumental demo. He was immediately down to give it a try. He was wrapping up a tour at the time and happened to have a show in Philadelphia, so we had a chance to connect live and in person before he started to work on the top line. We chatted before his set, and that was when I knew he’d be a lovely collaborator. He was brilliant throughout the writing process as well, just incredibly warm and open.

Ultimately I think the main reason that the collaboration worked so well is because of the versatility of Jamison’s vocals. The instrumental was initially much more chill and laid back, almost like a lullaby, and so his vox was recorded to fit that mood. However, I started to experiment and eventually developed a chorus that diverged from the typical “chill” essence I’d set out to create. The beautiful thing was that Jamison’s vocals still worked within the track perfectly, and helped enrich the parts that came about after he’d recorded his vocals.

As well as making music, you work as a visual artist with inks and watercolors. You’ve kindly shared a few of them with us. Can you tell us a bit about your relationship with visual art and your processes?

I’ve been stealing pens from my dad since I was a little kid, drawing in any notebook I could find since probably the age of 3 or 4. At one brief point in time, I wanted to be a professional illustrator. That ended when I got to high school and was enrolled in illustration classes where they made me draw from real life. That just got monotonous for me so quickly.

My approach to drawing is almost exactly the same as my approach to composing music; I pick up my pen, clear my mind, and just let my hand move by itself. I’m a firm believer in not forcing things, and that’s definitely reflected in my creative habits, musically and visually. I’ve only just recently started to add colour to my drawings with watercolor markers, so rather than restricting my practice, I’m continuing to explore. Taiyo Matsumoto, Inio Asano, and Jean-Michel Basquiat inspire me.

As far as goals for illustrating, right now it’s still only an “enjoyment passion,” but I have considered ways in which I might bridge my interest in illustration and music. I did a small exhibition of ink drawings last year at the release party for my debut EP Friend of a Friend and am trying to figure out how to do something similar for ‘Faces I Know.’ We’ll see.

What are the benefits for you of working hand in hand as a musician and visual artist?

There are definitely things you can exclusively express through visual art, as there are things you can only show with sound. Sometimes I come across emotions and experiences I can’t explain solely through music, and that’s when I turn to paper.

Your music has this therapeutic framing around it. What are your thoughts on the pursuit of relaxation, calm, focus and clarity, especially while trying to build a career as a musician in an unstable world?

I’m a huge fan of all things self-care. That’s why my dorm room is set up to be super comfortable with nice lighting so if I’m chilling in there alone or with my guys, it’s completely relaxing. Being cool with my living space is super key to my personal wellness.

But even simpler than that, I think setting aside time for reflection and introspection is one of the most helpful things you can do in your pursuit of comfort and clarity. The more you figure yourself out, the more comfortable life gets - and that applies to all passions and vocations.

Instupendo has just released ‘Fleur’ feat Teen Daze. His new EP Faces I Know is drops on April 3, 2018. Over March, April, and May, Instupendo will play a series of live shows across the US and Canada. - The 405

Philly electronic artist instupendo has released two new singles, gearing up for the release of his EP Faces I Know, out April 3rd. The first single is “Fleur” which features Teen Daze. The song is atmospheric, lush, and relaxing with fluid and sparkling synths and lyrics of abstract poetry, sung in childlike whispers by Teen Daze.

The second single is “Boy”. The track starts off with a gentle crescendo of scintillating, layered synths. The bass and percussion are pronounced yet simplistic. There’s a pleasant, delicate use of strings and vocal harmonies, as well as mid-toned, dreamy synth to fill up the space. instupendo creates luxuriant dreamscapes that lure you into daydreams and relaxation.

You can pre-order instupendo’s euphoric new project here (https://instupendo.bandcamp.com/album/faces-i-know), and listen to the new singles down below. Instupendo plays CODA on March 30th. - WXPN's The Key

One of our longtime favorite chill producers, Aidan Peterson, a.k.a. Instupendo, continues to impress. By now, his signature sound is recognizable almost instantly, but Instupendo keeps things fresh enough with every new release so as to ensure that each one is as special as the last. With “boy,” the first single off his forthcoming EP, it’s the orchestral elements that really make the track stand out. Even compared to Instupendo’s normally emotive work, this one seems particularly emotionally resonant, and although the song sounds very Instupendo-like, it remains unique and invigorating, too. “boy” in a word? Bliss. - Nest HQ

Music can be many things to different people, but its ability to soothe and de-stress listeners isn't something we don't highlight enough. It's not always about a catchy chorus or a stellar vocal performance—sometimes music heals, soothes, and distracts the brain from anxiety with subtler elements.

Existence can be pretty overwhelming. Every now and then a little assistance is needed in shutting off from the world. From spa soundtracks to one of Frank Ocean's most tender moments, we've got you covered. Instead of stressing out about work or studying, take a breather and just unwind for a moment with some of the most relaxing music around.

Instupendo "Boy"
There’s a whole bunch of streams on YouTube right now of lo-fi hip-hop, usually with a melancholy looking anime girl studying as the thumbnail. While these are enjoyable enough, few of them really embody that slice-of-life feeling. Philadelphia-based producer Instupendo, however, produces music that’d make the perfect accompaniment to something as beautiful and breathtaking as Your Name. Describing his own sound as "electronic melancholy-nostalgia music," the 17-year-old's latest track is his most cinematic and best yet.

As for whether we can ever expect his music to soundtrack something in the future, he told us, “I’m a huge fan of visual art in all forms, and the intersection of music and visual performance has always been fascinating to me. When the opportunity comes, I’d love to score something I completely appreciate creatively.” Here’s hoping, because “Boy” is perfect for it.

The full in-depth article also features music by Brian Eno, Aphex Twin, Burial, Bibio, Boards of Canada, Mount Kimbie, and more. - Pigeons & Planes

This song took me a little while to get into, but over successive listens it has grown on me. I think the tough part for me was MNDR's vocals. They're bold and bordering poppy -- something I tend to struggle with these days. Instupendo's remix, on the flip side, is rich and lush, layering beautiful melodies over catchy beats. It really all comes together perfectly with the net result that I can't help but want to blog the heck out of it.
Sounds like: filous, Moullinex - Indie Shuffle

Instupendo‘s debut EP, Friend of a Friend, is just the latest in a string of quality releases that have helped the young producer to skyrocket in popularity over the course of the past six months, with multiple tracks now nearing the coveted million play mark on both SoundCloud and Spotify.

He’s best known for his trademarked wispy and gorgeous ambient soundscape, and in that respect this project certainly doesn’t disappoint, but it’s the addition of vocals in Friend of a Friend that distinguishes it from all of Instupendo’s past work. And it’s a brilliant move: there’s something for everyone on this project, including both instrumental-only devotees and purist fans, as well as those looking for a more sing-a-long type vibe. Both Lontalius and Benny Sings complement Instupendo’s beautiful instrumentals on “Hand to Hold” and “Homme,” respectively. Soft and gentle, their raspy and emotion-filled voices convey strong feelings with lovely, simple but powerful lyrics.

In all, Friend of a Friend is that special breed of EP – a project which retains mainstream crossover appeal without sacrificing an inch of realness, emotion or artistry – and an emphatic assertion that Instupendo’s time has arrived. - Nest HQ

This is some of the prettiest production we've heard all year.

Philadelphia-based producer Instupendo caught our ear at the start of the year thanks to some impressive numbers, and now he's back with his debut EP. Friend of a Friend is a distillation of what makes Instupendo such an interesting producer, pairing his idiosyncratic cutesy production with guest vocals from the likes of P&P favorite Lontalius. At only 12 minutes, the EP doesn't overstay its welcome, providing a succinct example of his talents.

"Save" is one of the prettiest songs he's produced yet, but the Lontalius collaboration "Hand to Hand" might be the real highlight here. Lontalius' delicate vocals suit Instupendo's gorgeous atmospherics perfectly, so hopefully this isn't the last time these two work together. With minimal percussion, Instupendo focuses on melodies just like he did on his finest SoundCloud releases. It's skeletal stuff, but what's here is serene and worth sinking into. - Pigeons and Planes

Instupendo of Philadelphia has become a household name among SoundCloud producers. He’s single-handedly created his own wave of warm, comforting instrumental music that has drawn the attention and affection of countless listeners and established artists alike. The most impressive part of it all? He hasn’t even graduated from high school. I was fortunate enough to have a conversation with the blossoming young creative, who shared a lot about his thoughts, collaborators, and what’s to come in the future. Read our full interview with the young sensation below.

How old are you now?
17 years old, about to go into my senior year of high school.

What’s next for you after high school?
I’m applying to a few colleges, and they all have like music business programs and stuff. But at the same time while I’m taking classes, I’m also just trying to make a lot of music and do a lot of touring stuff. I definitely wanna take music business courses just so that I’m knowledgable about what’s going on around me, and if there’s deals that are happening, I know how to maneuver through them.

What colleges have you applied to so far?
I haven’t applied to any yet but I’m looking at NYU and a few others out in LA.

You really built yourself up as an instrumentalist producer, but you have recently started to feature some vocals in your music. Who are some vocalists you hope to work with in the future, both pipe-dream and those that you actually have lined up?
I have Lontalius coming as well as Roy Blair, so that’s pretty cool. Both of those should be happening real soon. As for pipe dreams? I guess Reggie Snow or Frank Ocean; that would be dope.

I was hoping to get some explanations about your music videos, which are very vague and similar to abstract art in that many different people could interpret them many different ways. Could you shed some light on the “Light Lock” and “Homme” videos?
You’re definitely right about leaving them up to interpretation. I think that makes the music video a lot more fun, if the viewer has to like figure it out rather than just having it laid out for them. But to me, it’s also pretty vague. As for the “Light Lock” one, the general basis of it is that it takes place in the future where artistic expression is not allowed. This is kind of like a rogue meeting of people who like art and such like that, and then the kid just kinda breaks out. The “Homme” video was even more abstract, I’d say. It obviously has the overdosing at the end, which is kind a critique on opioids and stuff like that. But it also has to do with the pressure of being a man in like American society, which can be taken a million different ways. But as you see in the video, just kind of like different stressors that it takes to be a guy in daily life.

Do you come up with the concepts for the videos?
The videographers came up with the ideas for the videos. Part of me really likes seeing what the videographers think fits the song and stuff, but in the future I definitely wanna get more involved in the process.

I’ve read that the most important thing to you is when a listener has an emotional connection to a song. Is there a certain vibe you hope every listener will relate to when listening to a song?
Yeah, I think generally the interpretation I would create for would be like comfort; that’s why I made the song “Comfort Chain”. But in general, my music has a warm, comforting sound to it because that’s how I like to feel.

You’ve said that you’ve really had to sacrifice your social life to pursue music production and simultaneously go to high school. Would you characterize yourself as an introvert?
I guess it really depends on the situation, because I guess if I’m around people I don’t know that well, I can be pretty introverted. But, if I’m around people that I’m comfortable with, I can, ya know, be the loudest one in the room. I don’t think there’s one side to me, I’m pretty adaptable to the situation.

You have some really cool merch. Who is the artist that draws the designs for it?
Oh thank you. Yeah, definitely shoutout to the artist Kikkujo.

Is he the same person that does your album covers with paintings on them?
Nah, that’s actually Kacper Abolik. He does all of the artwork on A$AP Rocky’s instagram.

Rocky actually said something about your “Long Live” song, right?
Yeah, that was actually really weird. One day 40 Oz DM’d me on Twitter and said A$AP Rocky wants to link, he thinks your music is dope or whatever, and I never really heard anything else from him so it was kind of a dead end but it was still cool to know.

How did the Catching Flies remix of “Save” come about?
Yeah, so that was a really cool thing. My manager reached out to his and asked if he wanted to do a remix, and he was like yeah he’d actually had his eyes on “Save”. So that just kind of happened, and it turned out super great.

You have some seriously dope shirts. Where do you like to shop for clothes?
I like to online shop mostly, or thrift. Thrifting you can get some MAJOR gems if you’re lucky. In terms of brands, I’m a big fan of Gosha Rubchinskiy and Junya Watanabe. - Elevator

Following the release of his debut EP, it was only a matter of time until Instupendo‘s work inspired others to take his tunes for a spin. The first to unveil their reproduction is the UK’s Catching Flies, who manages to keep the spirit of the original track, “Save,” while also freshening it up into something completely his own.

Catching Flies’ reproduction maintains the mellifluous, gentle vibe of the original but with a subtle increase in energy. A rumbling bass provides a foundation for Instupendo’s original vocal samples to glide and glisten over, before transitioning into a dazzling array of arpeggios and soft synths. - Dancing Astronaut

Wow. It’s a struggle to put the words together to accurately capture the profundity and agonizing beauty that is this official music video for Instupendo‘s “Homme,” off his last EP. But suffice it to say that you’ll walk away from a viewing of this one having been struck deep – it’s not a lighthearted video, but it’s a fantastic one.

“Homme,” whose composition is classically sparse and gorgeous, with delicate vocals courtesy of Benny Sings, is striking on its own, but this video takes things to the next level with a heartbreakingly powerful narrative.

Overall, it’s a masterful effort from director James Rönkkö, and a must-watch. https://youtu.be/l6HTrP5rgbM - Secret Shores

Just when you think it’ll be you and instupendo’s watery keys for the entirety of the piece, rapid-fire drum loops ripple across the surface and smack you upside the head, like you just wandered into a current that’s going to take you wherever it wants you to go. But I trust whatever this Philly-based composer has in store for me. - The Burning Ear

After a string of hype-building originals released in 2016, Philadelphia’s own Instupendo has made the most of the first half of 2017. The producer, who emerged on the scene with a unique, dreamy sound, was tapped by Cosmo’s Midnight for a remix of their track 'History' and followed that up with his debut EP 'Friend of a Friend'.

Backed by a burgeoning, organic fanbase that seems to grow daily, Instupendo has been selected to provide the 88th mix in DA‘s Radar series. Opening with the first single from Friend of a Friend 'Save,' this mix explores new directions for the producer. The emphasis, of course, remains on languid, billowing grooves, but with selections from the likes of Four Tet and Chrome Sparks, Instupendo’s selections come from a wide breadth and mesh intriguingly well with his own idiosyncratic style. This mix further cements the teases at new directions to explore from Friend of a Friend and bolster the producer’s reputation as one to watch in the coming months.

https://soundcloud.com/dancing-astronaut-mixes/the-radar-88-mixed-by-instupendo - Dancing Astronaut

To say Instupendo burst onto the scene would be incongruous with his sound. Nothing about his style — as singular as it was when his first releases gained traction on Soundcloud as it is now — seems to “burst.” Instead, it flows pleasantly, incessantly outward, collecting fans in its wake.

The release of his debut EP Friend of a Friend, then, feels much like a culmination of his efforts to date. Each successive release has only cemented the Philadelphia-based producer’s status as a musician to watch in 2017. That idiosyncratic sound — a paradox: hazy without a single defined edge, yet possessing a subdued, bright shimmer; melancholic, yet at the same time relaxing and hopeful — is in full form on the EP. Amidst a cohesive sonic atmosphere, subtle deviations in sound drum up excitement for what Instupendo may still have up his sleeve.

The lead-off single, “Save,” is the most in-line with the producer’s current body of work. The EP’s second track, however, demonstrates a quiet confidence that is palpable throughout Friend of a Friend. Featuring vocals from New Zealander Lontalius, “Hand to Hold” eschews the typical response on a debut to do as much as possible. Instead, Instupendo demonstrates considerable restraint, making space in the spotlight for his lyricist and opting to let his synths alone. The resultant track— which has no percussion — acts like a soft cushion for the vocals to glide over.

“Play Palette” also marks a departure from the producer’s signature style. While it isn’t uncommon for Instupendo’s releases to go nearly two full minutes before the percussion kicks in, the EP’s third track kicks into gear relatively early. A clever decision that oscillates the hi-hat pattern from a backbeat to the very front of the tempo gives this stellar track the most energy of Instupendo’s releases to date.

Rounding out the EP is another collaboration, “Homme” featuring vocals from Benny Sings. Exceedingly gentle, the track evokes a languid sway that is drenched in emotion. With his haziness in full effect, the hypnotic affectation is so intoxicating that the outro sneaks up on the listener.

For most, a debut EP would be the start of something. In Instupendo’s case, however, his productive 2016 served to lay the groundwork and expectations for this EP. It’s unsurprising then, that Friend of a Friend feels more like the closing of the first chapter. The producer is established, his sound is unique, and this EP is the definition of that, while at the same time teasing growth to keep fans intrigued at where he will go next. The recent release of his take on Cosmo’s Midnight “History,” combined with the release of Friend of a Friend, will only serve to increase the hype around this rising talent - Dancing Astronaut

The nebulous wandering sounds at the heart of this track hint at more than just a chilled atmosphere. There is a warmth to this, a ghostly warmth, a warmth of things past and remembered and cherished, something like a loved one coming back to watch over you in their afterlife—almost mournful, almost joyful, this track is clouds pierced by sunlight, sadness sprinkled with glad feelings, it is bittersweetness. It has the touching title of 'play palette' and it was created by Instupendo.

Heady nostalgia swirls heavily around the glass sides of this track like a wine saved and savoured. The wonky decaying synth chimes like an ancient musicbox opened and watched and listened to and almost tasted, memories effusing from it, and then the beauty of that piano, dusty and half-dilapidated, the touching ornamentations and flourishes of recollection, the exquisite details of broad emotions. 'play palette' takes us by the hand, driven along by the smart stoic beat, unceasing clean with snapping clarity, the structure of it providing that grounding of reality as the mists of time whirl round our fingers and we try to hold on; the angular frame of the window as we gaze out of it.

This comes from Instupendo's recent Friend of a Friend EP. You can listen to this on SoundCloud but you can also stream and download it from various other places.

The artwork for the EP, with brushstrokes and details as indistinct yet bold as the shifting shadows of memorial echoes in the track itself, was created by Kacper Abolik. This artist has, amongst other things, received attention due to his vibrant soulful paintings being featured on A$AP Rocky's Instagram. - Yes/No Music

Have you heard of Instupendo? Neither had I until this week, but holy-damn I am so grateful for the introduction.

The young Philadelphian producer has just released his latest ep ‘Friend of a Friend’, and its four tracks may very well be the prettiest, most soothing and comforting music you’ll hear this week. - Acid Stag

Local electronic boy instupendo plans on releasing his new EP "Friend of a Friend" on May 5th, and to give us a little taste of what's to come, released the first single “Save”. Carried with an eerie vocal-like hum that could be stripped right from The 1975’s B-sides, the chilled out track never breaks its spell, beautifully prancing along with dreamscape-like intensity... It’s hypnotic alright, almost meant for exclusive listening after 1:30 am. - WXPN's The Key

The latest single from Cosmo’s Midnight became an instant hit for its funky, catchy elements. But the duo enlisted Instupendo for a slowed-down, minimal remix of “History” and it’s damn good. Instupendo adds a personal flair by incorporating a lullaby-like melody and a haunting effect created with the track’s original vocals. It’s almost as if it’s not simply a remix of the original song; it captures the intended essence of “History” through a new interpretation. - Nest HQ

Instupendo can do no wrong. What more can we say? Each of the West Chester native’s tracks are gorgeous perfection – each one has its own way of striking a chord with listeners, giving you a warm feeling deep within.

His trademarked ambient sounds are present throughout his remix of Cosmo’s Midnight’s “History,” but the bass – which sits front and centre in the mix – and vocals here give the track a distinctly different feel and ambience from most of his other songs. On this one, Instupendo transforms the soulful, funky original into a profoundly emotional ballad that is nothing short of jaw-dropping with a remix for the ages. We can’t get enough. - Secret Shores

Philadelphia-based producer Instupendo has had our attention for over a year now. Arriving on the scene with a unique sound and vibe seemingly fully-formed, the anticipation for the release of his debut EP Friend of a Friend is very high. Fans expected to wait until the EP’s May 5 release date for more of Instupendo’s work; however, the surprise release of a remix of Cosmo’s Midnight‘s latest “History” should provide the perfect bridge until the Friend of a Friend drops.

The debut of Instupendo’s take on “History” also marks an exciting new avenue for the producer. Until now, he has been focused on creating the wistful, dreamy originals that has won him fans over. Indeed, Instupendo didn’t shy away at all from radically reworking Cosmo’s Midnight’s original. Where their original had a futuristic, upbeat affectation, Instupendo leans way back into a melancholy vibe, resplendent with his lackadaisical tempo and hazy synths. The mark of a good remix is to remain faithful to the original while creating something (almost) entirely new — no easy feat. For his first go at the reproduction game, Instupendo has squarely hit that ambitious mark. - Dancing Astronaut

Get familiar with these 10 essential rising artists who are racking up millions of plays and killing it on SoundCloud right now: Dylan Brady, Indica, Ta-Ha, Lil Peep, Blank Body, Wifisfuneral, Melo Makes Music, Instupendo, 16yrold, Lund.

While blog coverage can certainly help an artist, it’s not a prerequisite. Thanks to the introduction of internal support like SoundCloud’s repost function, plenty of artists have managed to bring in huge numbers despite relatively small followings and minimal media coverage. Even the viral success story is becoming traditional fare, and as such some artists are building their fanbases in smarter, more gradual ways.

Success online often leads to real life fans, working as a stepping stone to selling out tours across the country. Whether it be through clever collaborations or nurturing an increasingly hungry group of die-hards, artists once thought of as niche are translating a reliable online presence into a career arc. That's why, for so many new artists, SoundCloud, Twitter, and Instagram have become more important than getting a deal or working with PR companies.
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Philadelphia-based producer Instupendo is somewhat of an anomaly in the SoundCloud community, if only because he’s managed to garner over half a million listens on tracks that are essentially ambient. His dinky, raw production is instantly enjoyable, and tracks like “Six Forty Seven” and “Long Live” have become part of the regular rotation. Focusing on melodies and a gentle ambience, Instupendo provides a really nice change of pace from the rest of the artists with big numbers on SoundCloud. - Pigeons & Planes

Philadelphia-based producer Instupendo has been steadily growing his fanbase with a consistent stream of releases and a style all his own. Having previously appeared in two editions of our Sunday Morning Medicine series, the producer’s latest. “icarus.” is quite deserving of recognition.

While the title is an obvious reference to the myth of Icarus flying too close to the sun, Instupendo’s production maintains a reserved stance throughout. His singular style of hazy arpeggios crafted out of rounded off synths remains the focal point — something akin to taking Tycho‘s work, incepting it into a dreamscape, and slowing it way down.

The producer also showcases considerable restraint, waiting until the track’s final third to really begin adding consistent bass lines and percussion — even then, they remain unobtrusive and serving of the track on the whole. In all, “icarus.” provides the perfect soundtrack to lazy afternoons or walks home at sunrise after a long night. - Dancing Astronaut

Instupendo, a.k.a. Aidan Peterson, carries a tune that feels well-handled but open at the seams, displaying a fine attention to detail that produces a roving vignette over a shifting sonic landscape. He recently shared "Comfort Chain," a track that offers a moment to pause and reflect in a way that feels soothing rather than drowsy. Peterson is working on an EP that’s set to release this spring, but in the meantime, you can catch him tomorrow night at Kung Fu Necktie, where he’ll be performing with Bucolic, Dizzyride, and Lokomoko. - The Deli - Philadelphia

This Friday the 2nd of December, Clockwork Radio has lined up an exclusive interview with the ultra talented Instupendo. This Philadelphia based producer has been steadily gaining recognition as one of the most creative ambient producers of 2016. His emotional style cuts straight to the soul and his expression has not gone unnoticed. Instupendo continues to chart on Soundcloud, Hype Machine and appear in discovery Spotify playlists.

Instupendo tells us about his musical process, his plans for live shows and the journey of his young career so far. To add to the fun, we have a brand new single from Instupendo called ‘Icarus’ to share with you.

Also on the show, BMac will highlight some talent coming out of Dublin with a guest mix from the local Why-Axis.

Show airs on Friday night (01/12/2016), 20-22:00 GMT.

Clockwork Archive: https://soundcloud.com/clockworkdublin/clockwork-radio-session-058-instupendo-interview-why-axis-guestmix - Frission Radio

The latest song from Philadelphia beatsmith Instupendo is a 3 minute instrumental masterpiece. Smokey, meandering percussion unfolds alongside waves of hazy sounds — blanketing the song in daydream inducing vibes. I think it’s safe to say that Instupendo has established a sound and style that sets himself apart in this vast sea of modern producers. - Audio Aquarium

Instupendo is the moniker of Aidan - a high school student from Philadelphia. Aidan, however is not an ordinary teenager - the young producer has created some of my favourite beats lately and while he is a recent discovery, I often stop at his SoundCloud page and browse through the sounds recorded in his bedroom.

He created a super chilled mix which I bet all of you will love. Enjoy the 20 minutes groove and the interview we did together (below).

TRACKLIST:

1. everett orr - cant let you go
2. harris cole - goodbye
3. instupendo - rainy day (unreleased dj tool)
4. nujabes - city lights (ft. pase rock & substantial)
5. gladkill - let u go
6. phonat - dont talk, now
7. instupendo - beauty unit
8. bsd.u - reefers
9. art vandelay - naima & mr. hutch

Hey, Aidan! Pleasure to have you as a guest on our mini mix series. Could you tell us something about yourself?

Thanks for having me. I’m a 16 year old highschool student from Pennsylvania. I play soccer, and skateboard, but mostly I like to make music on my computer. I enjoy nature walks and sending and receiving letters.

How would you describe your mini mix in a sentence? What was the inspiration behind the track selection?

I was going for something that felt smooth and fit with the season. This mix is just a small glimpse into the music I like. It’s the kind of music that inspires my own production.

How did you get into music production? You're still at school, so you must have started this at a very young age?

I started producing when I was around 12 years old after my older sister showed me a Skrillex song and I thought it was the coolest thing ever. I downloaded FL Studio and taught myself how to produce just by screwing around. I’d taken piano and guitar lessons before that, but mostly played by ear.

I've realized that your earlier tracks sound somehow more bassy/trap-influenced, while latest stuff like "falling." and "light lock." are... pretty low-fi / mellow. Do you think your sound is changing or it's more of a random kind of approach?

Well, yeah, there was bit of a shift, but I’ve always tried to make at least one change in each new track, be it the kind of drums I use, or the kind of synth that I use. It’s usually pretty random how that change comes about, but I always deliberately make a change. Sometimes I stumble upon something that strikes me; sometimes it’s more about wanting to learn something new. I think it’s important for artists to continually experiment and stretch their capabilities. The “departure” in my upcoming track, Icarus (dropping December 3rd), is a mid-song BPM and key change. Nothing crazy, but it’s still something that I’d never done before in a release.

How does your average day look like?

Most days I’m at school all day and I do typical student stuff, but I get credit for studying music production independently. After classes it’s sports, dinner, study hall and then free time to make music. When I’m not in school it goes like this: I roll out of my bed, make coffee, take a shower, open up FL Studio and try to compose a cool score. If I’m unsuccessful I’ll take a break and draw for a bit or something. At night is when I really start to work for real. At night I spend a few hours just dicking around in FL, seeing if I can do anything cool or better yet finish any songs. After that, I brush my teeth, put my retainer in, and go to bed.

You're playing live a few weeks. Is that the first time you'll be performing live (if not, what was it like the first time on stage)?

My show on December 10th is the first time that I’ll be headlining in my own city. The first show I played was actually an accident. I was going to one of my producer friend’s shows and a day before, the person organizing it found out I was coming and asked me if I wanted to open it! It was pretty fun even if there weren’t that many people there.

What's on your playlist right now? Any producers we should be checking out?

My playlist is pretty eclectic - I listen to everything: Brooks Brothers, Lontalius, Warhol.ss, Steve Lacy, D Savage, Nujabes, Frank Ocean, Harris Cole, whatever!

People should definitely be checking out Buji and Good Intent. Those guys are not only my best friends, but they also make kickass music.

What has been the hardest thing to sacrifice in the name of music so far?

My social life. I’ve been taking music seriously since my freshman year of high school, so I rarely have time during the days to hang out with friends or socialize. A small part of me feels like I’m missing the “high school experience”, but most of me feels like I’m doing the right thing by doing what I love and working on my future.

Plans for 2017?

Perform more! And release a lot more music, maybe an EP?

Thanks for the mini mix and the interview! Any last words of wisdom?

Brush your teeth and face the day with optimism and vigor! - StereoFox

Downtempo ambient music isn't always the easiest to win an audience over with, but I reckon Instupendo's "Light Lock" will set the right tempo for quite a few of you. The man behind the name is Philly-based Aidan Peterson. I'm not sure if this is going to be part of a larger release, but if you like what you hear, there's plenty more to find here.
Sounds Like: Boards of Canada, FKJ, Fhin - Indie Shuffle

Featured Song: Instupendo – Light Lock. Aidan Peterson a.k.a. Instupendo, a Philadelphia-based producer, brings us another gem showcasing his trademarked sound with “Light Lock.” Instupendo’s style is truly special and distinctly his own – he blends washy electronic synths with chilling acoustic melodies to create some of the most unique, emotionally-charged tracks you’ll come across. Nostalgic as ever, one can’t help but space out and grin while listening to the chilled, beautiful composition.

Stream or download the track on all major platforms here. - Secret Shores

Philadelphia’s Aidan Peterson a.k.a. Instupendo is the “prince of smooth” according to Stoney Roads – his latest track would certainly support that assertion. Instupendo’s composition is sparse but powerful. In “Falling”, Boards of Canada-like synths and instrumentation transport listeners to a state of total calmness and self-reflection.

Having started producing at just 13 years of age, the young producer counts Tennyson and Studio Ghibli soundtracks among his inspirations. These formative influences shine through in his work, which evokes the same vibes as those legendary emotional soundscapes, but Instupendo has nonetheless managed to craft a sound that is uniquely his own. Eerie and beautiful, “Falling” is a stunner.

Check out more Instupendo on SoundCloud and Twitter, and stream the track on other major platforms here: https://lnk.to/InstupendoFalling - NestHQ

Sunday Morning Medicine is a feature from Dancing Astronaut dedicated to the mellower side of electronic music. We bring you our favorite therapeutic selections — old and new — in an attempt to alleviate the agonizing effects of a long weekend of partying...

“Wisp” is the latest from Philadelphia based producer Instupendo and an excellent introduction to the up-and-coming producer’s style. A decidedly downtempo affair, the track wobbles and glistens in absolutely no hurry. The producer also keeps things somewhat hazy, allowing its disparate elements to bleed into one another as it languidly rolls along.

https://soundcloud.com/bydaruma/instupendo-wisp - Dancing Astronaut

In December of 2012 Capital Steez was taken from this world. I think it was the first “celebrity death” that bothered me. How could the dude who’s voice I had on repeat, be dead. When Yams died I was older and I understood a little more. Dude loved codeine, what are you going to do? These two deaths changed both groups in ways that we will realistically never fully understand. Their best friends were taken from them in the primes of their life. When Yams died everyone from ASAP Mob went back to New York. And Pro Era, who had been through the pain before, was there for them. Seriously, I know that sounds like a joke, but they were there.

All of Pro Era and Flatbush Zombies were at Terminal 5 for Yams Day. And I wouldn’t be surprised if at one point in time a comforting Joey Badass pat the back of a crying Asap Lou. This past week Pro Era held their second annual Steez Day Festival and it only made sense that Asap Mob was on the bill. The two groups have been bonded by loss. But it was not all sadness. If you look at pictures from the event, some of these guys look happier than we’ve seen them in a while. It has got to be a great moment, years after the death of your friend, all the plans you had together have come to fruition, and thousands of people gather to celebrate his life. Screaming lyrics that he wrote when you guys were just chilling in some home studio. That’s got to make you feel like they’re invincible, like they’ll never be forgotten.

It is this idea that instupendo is working with on this track. Maybe he was inspired by the events of Steez Day last week or maybe it is just a huge timing coincidence and he just dropped a song. Either way, it fits. The vocals he uses are a loop of the hook from Long Live a$AP.

"Who said you can’t live forever lied,
Of course, I’m living forever I’ll
Forever I’ll, live long.
You can’t ever deny,
My force, I’m living forever I’ll,
Forever I’ll,
LIVE"

Instupendo takes the idea and runs with it, adding percussion, bass, chimes, and a plethora of other instruments to the haunting Rocky vocals. He even pitches them up for the second half making them sound even more angelic. This song is yet another example of the beauty that can come from some random kid making music in his room. But more importantly it is an example of the power of someone remembering. Instupendo remembered this break down from three years ago and now we have this beautiful piece of music. All it takes is for someone to remember you, and you can have an effect on this world. So in honor of Yams and the Pro Steez, we proceed.

https://soundcloud.com/instupendo/asap - The Place For Things

When I first heard ASAP Rocky‘s falsetto on “Long Live,” it caught me off guard. I wasn’t taken aback for long though, as a combination of his voice and the ethereal production backing it ended up making it a smooth experience. Instupendo has taken that falsetto and added his own mellow, blunted production behind it to create a new song that’s more consistently laid back than the original, from start to finish.

https://soundcloud.com/instupendo/asap - Artistic Manifesto

Man, this is incredible. Producer instupendo comes to us from Philadelphia and by the looks of his SoundCloud page, he's already on his way to greatness. His latest release 'beauty unit' is a delicately crafted piece of music with a smooth bass line throughout and subtle keys. "'Beauty Unit' combines Boom-bap and the vibrato style I've been working in lately," explains instupendo in an email to The 405. "I made it on a sunny day after work while drinking watermelon juice, and I think it really captures that sunny day vibe. The response to it so far has been gratifying."

It might be the perfect come down after a stressful day, it might be the perfect summer playlist addition, whatever it is, just make sure you listen to it and do it.

Check it out below, along with a brief Q&A.

https://soundcloud.com/instupendo/beauty-unit

Where do you find inspiration?

The thing that most inspires me is friends’ music. When I hear great music created by someone I have a close bond with, it pushes me to aspire to that level. All my friends are so talented, and they’re constantly inspiring me to make better and better music.

What risk would you take if you knew you could not fail?

I would head to Los Angeles with friends and spend my days making music and my nights performing. That would be an amazing livelihood. Someday!!

When was the last time you tried something new?

I just started working on a vegetable farm for the summer. We grow tomatoes, onions, squash, corn, garlic, and lots of other veg. I’m enjoying it because it gives me a chance to spend the mornings outdoors and I still have my afternoons and evenings free to make music. - the 405

Aidan Peterson, better known as Instupendo, is a 15 year old kid from Philadelphia and has just hit us with another tune to love, and to love to. Introducing the composition with only a single percussive hit and an ethereal piano melody, the prince of smooth layers reverb-heavy phrases with lo-fi snares to create a moody yet angelic drawl. Instupendo has slowly been climbing the ladder with unique, elegant and extremely advanced originals considering the age of the budding beat maker.

Whether you're a first time listener or long time fan, Instupendo's 'Six Forty Seven' should be the next song on your playlist. Follow the artist on Soundcloud and Twitter to keep up to date.

https://soundcloud.com/instupendo/six-forty-seven - Stoney Roads

Sunday Morning Medicine is a feature from Dancing Astronaut dedicated to the mellower side of electronic music. We bring you our favorite therapeutic selections — old and new — in an attempt to alleviate the agonizing effects of a long weekend of partying.

1. Shlohmo has the honor of the opening slot as Sunday Morning Medicine barrels on into Summer 2016. “Been Thinking” is a B-side from the producer’s first album Bad Vibes, released in 2009. Opting out of the crepuscular, ominous vibes that has been his calling card, this production aims more for a spacey ambient vibe. True to its name, this idiosyncratic oldie will have listeners pondering what other surprises Shlohmo has in store for future.

2. Dutch producer Sensi Sye, with an assist from countryman Cresce, occupies the on-deck spot for Volume 139. A lo-fi intro gives way to an expansive, varied production. Swirling synths, skittering plucks, chopped vocal samples, and a gnarly sub bass — giving the track a tasteful amount of grit — are all present in “Bon Voyage.” Infectiously groovy, this smile-inducing release is a perfect compliment to a lazy summer sunset.

3. At the halfway point is a late-breaking entry from Philadelphian instupendo. A gently stilted piano line forms the foundation of “beauty unit.” In a clever inversion of the norm, instupendo uses the meandering bass line for a bit of call-and-response with the main melodic phrases, adding some life and giddy bit of forward momentum to short and sweet entry.

https://soundcloud.com/instupendo/beauty-unit

4. Vol. 139’s penultimate entry looks a bit ahead, as “Out At Night” is French producer Stwo‘s second single from his upcoming EP D.T.N.S.T. Perhaps obviously a meditation on late nights and all the trappings that come with them, the track, featuring vocals from A.Chal, never pushes the energy or tempo. This won’t be the fit when looking for that last burst of energy at 4 AM, “Out At Night’s” minimalist drums, rounded off synths, and slinky guitar work instead provide the perfect soundtrack for the contemplative trip home as the sun begins to peak over the horizon.

5. Closing out the last entry before Sunday Morning Medicine turns the big 1-4-0 is Vassh’s “but how…” Unabashedly downtempo, this cautiously optimistic track stars and stays gentle throughout. Reverberating vocal samples float over a foundation of guitar, glistening pianos, and subdued percussion. In all, an able and effective production ideal for closing one’s eyes and drifting off. - Dancing Astronaut

Maurice Moore continues to grind towards the release of an official pay album (he’s had a few stream-only and freelease projects before).  His latest track continues his string of (mostly) radio-friendly bops that still have his own distinct style about them.

The star of the show on this one is the production.  For something that is relatively simple in its implementation, Instupendo and Auracle managed to make something that makes the listener perk up their ears and yet still allows Moore to lay down some solid vocals that fill out the sound.  Not that we are taking anything away from Moore; his tone and delivery are perfect for the nonchalant, no-fucks theme of the track.  His adlibs, especially in the beat switch section towards the end, are a highlight and the subtle harmonies ride the wave of the production effortlessly.

About those times when haters feel like they get a big say in the direction that your life and your career go in, the singer basically lets it be known that, while he appreciates the support (and if you say you dislike someone and you spend all your time lurking around their social media and listening to their music, you’re still a fan), he is working towards his own goals and to ultimately please himself.  There also seems to be a slight message towards overly involved fans in there too; you know, the ones who want to put an artist in a box because they only want them to do one thing.  He’s in it for his artistic expression and what he wants to put out.  You are free to enjoy it or not.

https://soundcloud.com/mauricexiii/please-you - Kel & Mel Reviews