Tasseomancy

Tasseomancy, led by twin sisters Sari and Romy Lightman, represents a pivotal bridge between the Toronto indie folk scene and the city's electronic avant-garde. Originally performing as Ghost Bees, the duo rebranded in 2010 to reflect a shift toward more complex, experimental arrangements.

Their sound identity is characterized by 'blood harmonies' and a lyrical preoccupation with Jewish mysticism, family history, and surrealism. Their early work, specifically the album 'Ulalume', was deeply shaped by the dark, cinematic production of Timber Timbre's Taylor Kirk and Simon Trottier. As their career progressed through albums like 'Do Easy', they incorporated elements of 1980s sophisti-pop and soft-focus synth textures, moving away from pure folk into a more 'chamber pop' territory. Their cultural position is bolstered by their roles as backing vocalists for the electronic band Austra, which integrated them into the queer-leaning, synth-heavy Toronto underground. Critical consensus highlights their ability to maintain a sense of intimacy while exploring increasingly dense and sophisticated sonic palettes.