Kevin Bronson on November 4th, 2022

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For a decade, Julian Ducatenzeiler was the linchpin in L.A. psych-pop band Mystic Braves. Now, with the band “on hiatus to pursue other artistic ventures” after the January release of their fifth album, Ducatenzeiler is pulling back the curtain on his solo project, Jules Duke.

Here, as an antidote to a mad, mad world, Duke embraces dance music in all its escapist glory. His first single, “Toast,” out today, sounds plucked from the height of the disco era, a synth-driven flight of fancy with warm, glossy production, an irresistible chorus and a serious side. “Nothing’s gonna change if they don’t play nice,” he sings. Maybe there’s civility to be found on the dance floor. Cue the DJ.

||| Stream: “Toast”

||| Live: Jules Duke headlines Venice West on Friday, Dec. 16, joined by the Violet Mindfield and the Big Sir. Tickets.