Moon Rise City is a duo born out of an unexpected meeting of cultures, blending South African soul with French musical flair under the night sky of Saigon. With singer Lauren Tracy and guitarist Indy Laville at the helm, their sound feels like a fusion of the old and the new, where vintage jazz and soul meet modern indie pop, all wrapped in a refreshing indie fusion style. Their music is grounded in rich, soulful vocals and intricate guitar work, but the duo doesn’t stop there—they layer their songs with rolling percussion, synths, and bass lines that give each track its own groove.
Lauren and Indy both come from different musical backgrounds, but instead of trying to hide these differences, they’ve embraced them fully. Whether they’re creating original songs or breathing new life into timeless jazz and soul classics, Moon Rise City thrives in their ability to merge contrasting influences. They’re inspired by iconic figures like Etta James, Nina Simone, and Bill Withers, yet their music is equally shaped by contemporary acts such as Benny Sings and The Villagers. This mixture of nostalgia and modernity defines their sound, pulling listeners into a world where the lines between eras blur in the most beautiful way.
At first, the duo aimed to keep their covers and originals separate, striving to carve out a space as “serious” indie artists. But it didn’t take long for them to realize that their unique blend of influences set them apart. Embracing their full spectrum of creativity, they now perform both at their live shows in Saigon, creating a seamless experience that reflects their broad musical palette. Whether it’s an original track or a classic reimagined, Moon Rise City brings the same energy and emotion to everything they do.
Their debut single, “Shadows of the Trees,” landed a spot on Spotify’s New Music Friday in South Africa, marking the start of their growing recognition. Their first EP, Relics of a Bygone, garnered praise for its ethereal and complex sound, blending pop, soul, and jazz with a haunting edge. Critics from Texx and the City, as well as international outlets like Portugal’s Phonograph Me, quickly took notice. This momentum continues to build as they prepare to release three new singles, which includes their newest release, a unique cover of George Gershwin’s classic “Summertime.”
“Summertime” is a defining moment for Moon Rise City, where they take this iconic 1935 track and infuse it with their signature sound. Laville’s guitar work, paired with Tracy’s powerful, soulful voice, gives the song a groovy, modern twist, making it feel both familiar and fresh. It’s the perfect track to capture the laid-back vibe of summer, no matter where you are in the world. Their take on “Summertime” is part of a larger project that will culminate in their second EP, Old Soul New Tricks, set for release in early 2025. This new collection will be a mix of original compositions and reimagined classics, giving fans a deeper look into the duo’s eclectic, soulful style.
Moon Rise City is just getting started, and their upcoming releases are set to further showcase the magic that happens when their diverse backgrounds and influences come together. With plans to perform across Vietnam, South Africa, and Europe next year, their live shows will offer audiences the chance to experience the vibrant energy that defines their music. Whether it’s through a groovy cover or a soul-stirring original, Moon Rise City promises to take listeners on a musical journey that’s as rich and varied as their own story.
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