Cooler Kids

Originating from Brooklyn, the Cooler Kids merged house and new wave elements into a lively yet unpredictable blend that emphasized funky energy. The duo featured Kaz Gamble, performing as DJ Kazimir, together with Sisely Treasure, who hails from California. Their start came through Gamble’s work alongside former Luscious Jackson singer Jill Cunniff at Pop Rox studio, where the pair developed disco-tinged material. During this period Treasure connected with Gamble over AOL, sparking an immediate creative rapport between the two. Serving as project overseer in the role of “groove godmother,” Cunniff helped guide the Cooler Kids as they directed their sound toward New York’s gay audiences. The resulting debut arrived in 2003 as the playful and eclectic Punk Debutante. Its single “Around the World” registered on the Billboard Dance Charts and landed on the Lizzie McGuire soundtrack, yet the group still disbanded in 2005. Gamble and Treasure maintained their partnership on later ventures, and Treasure went on to join Shiny Toy Guns.