Macaque is a New York-based electro-pop duo formed in the summer of 2005 and working out of a small studio in Chinatown. The group makes dense, sweet songs built from lush beats, shimmery melodies and driving bass lines.

The duo consists of vocalist Evers and DJ/programmer Chris Hart. Evers previously appears in the Chicago band Basic Shapes. Hart previously performs with Soundlab alongside Dizzee Rascal and at the Sound Cultures Festival at Cornell University.

Macaque performs at New York City venues including Cakeshop and MonkeyTown, where it sells out shows, as well as at underground dance parties and events. Its writing is described as humorous, intimate and sharply observant, and its sound combines danceable rhythms with a playful, self-deprecating approach.

Style and influences

The group’s music blends pop-oriented beats, strong bass lines, baroque music influences and textured noise. Its stated interests also include the misuse of English on Japanese and Chinese beauty products.

Related release

Macaque also appears on a La Peau et Les Os release from the French punk context.