Toronto, ON-based synth alt-pop duo, YSSY is made up of Elliot Caroll and Simeon Abbott, the two met on a first date and immediately bonded over a shared love of modern pop sounds and classic songcraft.
The duo released their latest single, “At Least We Know” on September 13, 2019, which they wrote and produced on their Spruce Sound label imprint. The disco-inspired instrumentation, ’80s synth bass, and bouncy, infectious beat, put together with the lyrics which are equally catchy and sincere create a track worthy to close out the days of summer.
Singer-songwriter/producer Elliot Caroll explains,
“Simeon (Abbott) and I wrote ‘At Least We Know’ about allowing yourself to try again and start something new, even when you think you know how it’s going to turn out. Our past experiences can colour how we approach future relationships, but if you go for it anyway, you’ll never have to wonder. This song is the realist’s anthem for living and loving without regret.”
Check out the single below and find out more about YSSY in our Five Questions With segment.
Care to introduce yourself to our readers?
We’re a pair of producers making vivid, synthy pop. Elliot is a singer/songwriter from Toronto and Simeon is a multi-instrumentalist originally from Estevan, Saskatchewan.
Tell us a bit about your music and writing style.
We’re devotees of both classic songwriting and the shiny sounds of modern hits. YSSY is all about combining electronic + organic sounds, introspective lyrics, and fun hooks. Basically, well-written pop songs with an arty edge.
Do you have any upcoming shows? For someone who has yet to see you live, how would you explain your live performance?
We’ll be announcing our album release show (and our first show, actually) in the next few weeks! Follow us on Instagram and Facebook to stay up to date.
If you were asked to suggest only one of your songs for someone to hear, which would it be?
“At Least We Know” – our new single was a blast to write and record, and the sunny mood shines through. It’s a retro-tinged, disco-pop jam that incorporates all those YSSY elements, with a chorus that we hope will encourage full-blown singalongs/dancealongs.
Canadian Beats is all about Canadian music, so who are your current favourite Canadian bands/ artists?
Simeon: July Talk, Alvvays, Bryan Adams.
Elliot: The New Pornographers, Teen Ravine, Bryan Adams.