Young Ejecta is poised to launch into synthpop superstardom — but it would settle for a one-hit wonder.
The Greenpoint duo recently released “The Planet,” an album of glittery anthems that plumb vocalist and songwriter Leanne Macomber’s experiences with heartbreak and loss. As with its 2013 debut “Dominae,” the music is informed by the keyboard and drum machine-heavy sounds of the ’80s, an era that offered up as many superstars as it did flash-in-the-pan artists. Macomber, who is best known as a member of band Neon Indian, said she would be perfectly satisfied with such a singular success.
“It would be super fun!” said Macomber, one half of Young Ejecta with musical partner Joel Ford. “To have people say, ‘She did that one thing that one time but everything else — ugh!’ I can walk around with that.”
The group hasn’t hit the top 10 yet, but it is making a noticeable splash in the indie music world. The twosome has picked up warm critical notices from the tastemakers at the likes of Pitchfork and Under the Radar, and has developed a reputation for its intense, impassioned live shows.
But all the attention has a slightly bittersweet edge to it for Macomber. Her songs tend to orbit around difficult subject matter, such as the end of a romantic relationship and, on one track, the death of a close friend.
“There have been nights when we’re performing certain songs where I’ve had trouble getting through them,” she said. “I can get really overwhelmed, even on stage in front of a bunch of people.”
But Macomber isn’t going to let emotions get in the way of Young Ejecta’s rise. The duo is preparing for a big record release show at Baby’s All Right in Williamsburg on Feb. 20, followed by tours this summer. Macomber said she also wants to head back into the studio to have another shot at writing that hit song — and she’ll do whatever it takes.
“Joel might get locked away for a while doing some production work,” Macomber said. “He also just got married so he needs to be here for a bit. That is until I can kidnap him and force him into making another record.”
Young Ejecta at Baby’s All Right [146 Broadway between Bedford and Driggs avenues in Williamsburg, (718) 599–5800, www.babysallright.com]. Feb. 20 at 8 pm. $12.
