NAVVI

Originating in Seattle, Washington, Navvi operated as an electro-pop duo that fused melodic hooks drawn from pop with expansive, reverb-heavy atmospheres, while layering haunting electronic elements through production methods reminiscent of U.K. dub and modern alternative R&B. The lineup consisted of vocalist Kristin Henry alongside producer Brad Boettger, who first connected via an introduction from a shared acquaintance. At the time Henry had exited a prior group and was navigating creative stagnation; once paired with Boettger the pair began exchanging playlists and sampling varied musical styles, which prompted them to launch an entirely new endeavor. Starting from a stripped-back foundation, they incorporated Henry’s established folk-pop tendencies together with Boettger’s guitar abilities to develop an expanded sonic identity. This yielded a blend of dense, synth-driven dark pop, delicate electronic layers, richly layered sonic environments, and gentle vocal delivery. The duo issued several singles, among them the Kitsuné collaboration “Speak,” ahead of their debut EP, // (pronounced “Two”), which appeared at the close of 2014. The project drew broad approval, notably from Seattle’s KEXP, which highlighted the duo’s textural contrasts and their capacity to refresh established electronica conventions. Online attention quickly amplified awareness of their crisp, engaging electro-pop aesthetic and meticulous production values, expanding their audience across both listeners and reviewers. Throughout 2015 Navvi continued honing and expanding their approach while composing, tracking, and mixing their first album. Titled Omni, the record surfaced in summer 2016 via Hush Hush and attracted additional favorable commentary. The electro-pop duo also commenced rehearsals and embarked on performances across the United States later that year.