Each Measure Feature: TE/MO

FEATURE

I definitely had expectations for TE/MO just from seeing the title of the new duo of EPS. I, and anyone who’s taken a step in the direction of tarot, will be instantly intrigued by the dark and whimsical allure of the latest diptych “Loves, Upright” and “Lovers, Reversed.” Released on February 14, these two bundles of songs delve deeper into the concept of the previous TAROT EPs. This Chicago artist is fairly new to the scene, first splashing into the music scene in 2024. With help from producer JP Warner and Joey Chelius, her sound is, for lack of a better word, “a whole mood.”

The first track of “Lovers, Upright” wastes no time in building the feel-good vibes. A natural storyteller, TE/MO’s vocals are clear and coherent, delving into personal memories and modern references, which found me longing to sing along as if it was the latest Broadway pop musical. Instrumentation only boosts with steady drums, shredding guitar riffs, and layers of cartoonish backup vocals, synths, and glittering effects. The combined effect is of a whole nostalgic universe, like strolling through the posters, diaries, and haircuts of your teenage years.

“Lovers, Reversed” is a perfect smudged reflection of its counterpart. TE/MO playfully hits a minor note, slanting her lyrics to take a turn for the shadows. Grudges, lost dreams, hidden secrets, wrathful attitudes, broken glass, and witchery galore—the stories of these songs give the feeling of an enchanted toy shop after night has fallen and spirits wake up. TE/MOs's wailing voice perfectly distills the angst of the great 2000s pop punk laced with good ol’ rock’n’roll. The album starts with the ethereal electropop storyline of “Neverland” that builds a full listener experience through another unique six songs ending with the wonderful purge that is “Band Bro.”

The two EPs fit together excellently. My standout songs include the ethereal electropop of “Neverland,” the absurdist musings of “Dream Guy,” and the softer echos of “Reaching.” Altogether there are so many exciting things about TE/MOs music: a return to wacky narrative interludes, witchy energy we’ve been waiting for, synchronous lyrical honesty and empowerment... TE/MO isn’t afraid to have fun, dream big, and be utterly herself right down to the last lyrics that sealed the deal on my heart: “You shouldn’t have dissed Olivia Rodrigo; gotta get over you on the road... Band Bro.”

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