Bob Moses: Architects of Electronic Soundscapes
An exploration of the Canadian electronic duo's journey from Vancouver roots to global stages, blending emotive vocals with driving electronic beats.
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About Bob Moses
Origin and Members
Bob Moses is a Canadian electronic music duo formed in New York City, later establishing their base in Vancouver, British Columbia. The duo comprises vocalists and producers Tom Howie and Jimmy Vallance. Their musical journey began with shared tastes in diverse genres, from punk and grunge to minimalist electronic music.
Genre and Sound
The duo is primarily known for their contributions to electronic music, with significant influences from alternative dance and deep house. Their sound is characterized by a distinctive blend of emotive, often melancholic, vocals with driving, textured electronic arrangements, frequently settling in minor keys.
Label Affiliations
Bob Moses has released music through prominent labels, including Domino Recording Company and Astralwerks. Their early work was featured on the Scissor & Thread label before their signing with Domino in March 2014, marking a significant step in their career.
Formation and Evolution
Early Connections
Tom Howie and Jimmy Vallance first crossed paths at St. George's School in Vancouver. Despite shared musical interests, they were mere acquaintances until reuniting in New York City after high school. Vallance had been working in electronic music production, contributing to projects for artists like Matthew Dekay and Philipp Jung, and releasing early trance and progressive house tracks.
Creative Synthesis
Howie, after attending Berklee College of Music, also moved to New York. The duo reconnected and began collaborating, initially in Howie's apartment. They experimented by merging Howie's background in rock music with Vallance's expertise in trance and electronic sounds, developing a unique sonic identity.
Career Milestones
Their early work garnered attention from the Scissor & Thread collective, leading to the release of their debut EP, Hands to Hold, in October 2012, followed by Far from the Tree. Their signing with Domino Records in March 2014 propelled their career forward, culminating in the release of their debut album, Days Gone By, in September 2015.
Studio Albums
Days Gone By (2015)
Released on September 18, 2015, this debut album established Bob Moses in the electronic music scene. The track "Tearing Me Up" achieved significant recognition, earning Grammy nominations and winning Best Remixed Recording for its remix by RAC. The album showcased their signature blend of emotive vocals and danceable beats.
Battle Lines (2018)
The second studio album, Battle Lines, was released on September 14, 2018. It featured singles like "Heaven Only Knows" and "Back Down," further refining their sound and expanding their reach within the electronic music landscape.
The Silence In Between (2022)
Released on March 4, 2022, this album was described by the artists as musically expansive, featuring dense, layered instrumentals and gritty, textured arrangements. It continued their exploration of melancholic themes within electronic soundscapes.
Extended Plays (EPs)
Early Works
Bob Moses released several EPs that laid the foundation for their sound and career, including:
- Hands to Hold (October 2012)
- Far from the Tree (October 2013)
- First to Cry (June 2014)
Later EPs
Further EPs showcased their evolving artistry and included notable collaborations and reinterpretations:
- Unplugged (December 2019) - Featuring acoustic versions and a cover of Duran Duran's "Save a Prayer."
- Desire (August 2020) - A thematic project described as a "love tale for the digital age," presented as continuously mixed tracks.
- Falling Into Focus (Live 2020) (November 2020)
Notable Singles
Chart Performance
Bob Moses has achieved chart success across various platforms, particularly in Canada and the US, with singles like "Tearing Me Up" and "Love Brand New" reaching significant positions on alternative and dance charts.
Recognition and Awards
Grammy Award
The duo received critical acclaim when a remix of their song "Tearing Me Up" by RAC won the Grammy Award for Best Remixed Recording, Non-Classical. This accolade highlighted their significant impact and recognition within the broader music industry.
Live Act Recognition
Bob Moses was nominated for Live Act of the Year at the Electronic Music Awards in 2017, underscoring their reputation as compelling live performers. Their presence on major festival lineups further solidifies their status.
Live Performances
Global Stages
Bob Moses has graced numerous renowned festivals and venues worldwide, showcasing their dynamic live sets. Their performances often feature a unique blend of live instrumentation and DJing, creating an immersive experience for audiences.
- Festivals: Bonnaroo, Coachella, Lollapalooza, TomorrowWorld, Ultra Music Festival, Governors Ball, Melt!, Sonar.
- Venues: Bowery Ballroom, Fabric (London).
Critical Acclaim
Their live act prowess has been recognized by publications like Resident Advisor, which featured them among their Top Live Acts in both 2014 and 2015. Their ability to connect with audiences across diverse settings is a hallmark of their career.
Media Features
Radio Presence
Bob Moses has received significant airplay and features on major radio platforms, including BBC Radio 1, where they delivered a notable Essential Mix and performed live sessions from Maida Vale Studios. Their music has also been featured on KCRW's Morning Becomes Eclectic and KEXP.
Television Placements
Tracks from their album Days Gone By, such as "Tearing Me Up," have been featured in television shows like ABC's The Catch, further expanding their audience and exposure.
Personal Insights
Musical Lineage
Jimmy Vallance comes from a musical family, being the son of renowned Canadian musicians Jim Vallance and Rachel Paiement. This background likely contributed to their deep-rooted understanding and passion for music creation.
Family Milestones
In a personal update shared in late 2023, both Tom Howie and Jimmy Vallance announced the joyous arrival of their baby boys, marking a significant personal milestone in their lives.
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References
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Disclaimer
Important Notice
This page was generated by an Artificial Intelligence and is intended for informational and educational purposes only. The content is based on a snapshot of publicly available data from Wikipedia and may not be entirely accurate, complete, or up-to-date.
This is not professional music industry advice. The information provided on this website is not a substitute for professional consultation regarding music production, licensing, or career management. Always refer to official sources and consult with qualified professionals for specific needs.
The creators of this page are not responsible for any errors or omissions, or for any actions taken based on the information provided herein.