Sophie Powers & Grimes - Obsessed
Toronto's alt-pop sensation Sophie Powers recently caught the attention of electronic music fans when Grimes remixed her track "Obsessed," one of the standout songs from her latest EP, Glitch: Lvl 1. Powers had sent the original stems to Grimes in late 2023, and the result is nothing short of transformative. Grimes injected her signature style, pushing the track further into the electronic realm with glitchy beats, a haunting atmosphere, and a newscaster-style voiceover that opens the remix with an eerie nod to space. This remix, dubbed "Obsessed (Grimes DJ Edit)," became a staple in Grimes' live sets at AXE Ceremonia and both weekends of Coachella this year, creating buzz among electronic music enthusiasts and pop fans alike.
A growing trend
The intersection of electronic music and pop has been a fertile ground for innovation, and this remix is a perfect example. Grimes, known for her boundary-pushing productions, brings a darker, more experimental edge to "Obsessed," highlighting the potential of electronic music to redefine pop tracks. This crossover is not just a one-off collaboration but a growing trend where electronic elements are becoming integral to mainstream pop, giving the genre a fresh, dynamic feel. With artists like Sophie Powers embracing these influences, the line between electronic and pop continues to blur, creating a new hybrid sound that's capturing audiences around the globe.
Following the release of Glitch: Lvl 1 last month, Sophie Powers embarked on a tour to support the EP, with one of the most memorable stops being in San Francisco at the Brick and Mortar Music Hall. I was there to witness the show firsthand, and what I saw was nothing short of electrifying.
Glitch tour
In August, Powers took the Grimes remix on the road, and the energy was palpable. The evening was a blend of youthful enthusiasm and edgy performances. The crowd, a diverse mix of teenagers, parents, and young adults, was drawn in by the opener, Sadye, whose angelic voice set the tone for the night. Next, Zoe Ko's high-energy set, complete with live guitar and a fierce stage presence, further amped up the audience.
As the night progressed, the anticipation for Sophie Powers grew, and the energy in the room became almost electric. The lights dimmed, and a hush fell over the crowd as the intro to "Obsessed (Grimes DJ Edit)" played, its glitchy beats echoing through the venue. When Sophie finally took the stage, the audience erupted in cheers. Her commanding presence, coupled with the pulsating electronic beats, created a captivating atmosphere that felt both intimate and larger-than-life. Powers moved effortlessly across the stage, her DIY denim outfit catching the light as she engaged with the audience, who were completely entranced by her performance.
The setlist was a journey through Powers' evolving sound, seamlessly blending her alt-pop roots with the electronic edge brought by Grimes. As she performed tracks like "Better on Mute" and "When Life Gives You Lemons," the crowd sang along, their voices merging with the synthesized beats to create a unique live experience.
The synergy between Sophie and her band, particularly during the Grimes remix, was a highlight of the night, showcasing the perfect marriage of live instrumentation and electronic production.
The night culminated with Powers inviting fans on stage to dance under the black lights, creating a sense of unity that only live music can foster. After the show, she made time to connect with fans at the merch table, further solidifying her bond with her audience.
Sophie Powers may be rooted in alternative and indie pop, but her music, especially with the added electronic dimension from Grimes' remix, is a testament to the evolving landscape of pop music. The fusion of electronic production with mainstream sounds is becoming increasingly prevalent, and as someone who lives for these sonic innovations, it's a trend that makes my heart glitch with excitement.
