LOVESUCKER lost in a Gypsy translation
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The word “gypsy” gets thrown around a lot these days as it carries numerous meanings and translations on its back. Originally back in the 14th century, in the English language, the term “gypsy” referred to Romany people who occupied Central and Eastern Europe. These types of Gypsies still exist throughout Europe, except nowadays; being a Gypsy is something less than desirable due to its negative stereotypes and associations with homelessness, a lack of money, and a habit for thievery.
Surely Borat’s use of the term didn’t help improve matters either. Give me your tears. However, around Los Angeles, I’ve heard people often refer to themselves as Gypsies with the intention of seeming well travelled, worldly, and one with the universe. This is the part when I roll my eyes. So, you’ve been to Cancun, Mexico for Spring break? How well travelled you are indeed! You’ve crossed the border into Canada? You must be a Gypsy! Give me a break.
With all that personal bias said, I hate to bring duo LOVESUCKER into the mix because it’s just not their fault that I’m this judgmental, cranky downer. Vocalist Crystal Crosby refers to LOVESUCKER’s self-titled EP as “gypsy soul.” But what does that mean? Well, to Crosby, “it’s a state of mind – freedom, movement, fire and heart …”
OK, then. Similarly to how difficult it is to pinpoint Gypsy’s exact definition, it’s testing to decide whether LOVESUCKER’s music is ahead of its time, or if it’s sadly lost in translation.
Nevertheless, there’s something valuable to be said of music that confuses, and makes us think — like most independent film endings. That after thought of, “what did I just watch?” makes a strong, lasting impression, even with music.
LOVESUCKER’s EP is so puzzling and scattered when it comes to genre; listeners can’t help but push repeat. Whether we like the music or not is irrelevant; it keeps us coming back for more. In regards to LOVESUCKER’s tracks, “Sayonara Messiahnyde,” and “Don’t You Leave Me Now,” the last time we heard such a funky, heavy bass line was in most 80’s TV series’ theme songs, Night Court, anyone? Seinfeld?! Von Bury, who jams on the bass, (insert I Love You, Man Paul Rudd moment here) admits that he draws inspiration from the 70’s by embracing true funk tones and nuances.
Just when I thought at least one thing on LOVESUCKER’s EP would be consistent, the bass guitar, Crosby and Von Bury toss a curve ball that is “Mississippi,” which features an organ. Yes, an organ. But this ain’t no funeral. “Mississippi” sounds more futuristic and intergalactic than any other song on the EP. Clearly, each song on the EP stands alone, which explains why it’s not the easy-listening type. One thing is for certain, though: in the musically baffling world of LOVESUCKER, you will not be bored.
Sophie is a recent graduate from Arizona State University with a BA in Film and Media Studies. Born in London, and raised in Prague, she is a natural born traveller, which led to exploring Southeast Asia and most recently, Alaska. Whilst traveling, she’s expanded her knowledge and passion for foreign film and music. Upon moving to Los Angeles, she’s worked on television sets, a 2014 Sundance short, and participated in a live taping of “America’s Got Talent.” Sophie’s attentiveness for music began at seventeen, when she first gained access to the senior lounge’s speaker system, and often got into trouble for blasting explicit lyrics through her high school’s hallways. In her free time, Sophie spends countless hours at the movies, tattoo parlors, and local dog parks.