Kevin Bronson on October 15th, 2014

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The minimalist, up-tempo electro of Fujiya & Miyagi are just as likely to inspire dance-floor moves as they are to soundtrack any of your daily mundane tasks – and they’re brain-teasers as well. The Brighton, U.K., trio once wrote a paean to the “Photocopier,” after all, and the krautrock-inspired stylings of Steve Lewis, Matt Hainsby and David Best are at their sharpest on their new album “Artificial Sweeteners” (out in May via Yep Roc), their fifth. Says Best: “The music aims to be life-affirming and positive, offering an escape route from reality. I think taking enjoyment from the pleasurable aspects of life that counteract all the stress and anxieties is the best way to live.” Opening track “Flaws” is flavored with Lewis’ “Tron”-worthy beats, along with a crisp guitar riff and moody vocals provided by Best. “Every time I argue with a fool, I always lose,” Best speak-sings as if he’s done it a lot. That world-weariness, juxtaposed with Fujiya & Miyagi’s caffeinated rhythms and melodies, is the band’s fundamental blessing.

– Caitlyn Trudnich

||| Live: Fujiya & Miyagi play tonight at the Bootleg HiFi.