TeamMate

Los Angeles-based duo TeamMate craft emotive indie-electronic pop built on shimmering synth textures. The pair came together in 2013 when former Argument singer and multi-instrumentalist Scott Simons joined forces with former Big Hurry singer and drummer Dani Buncher. The two first crossed paths at West Virginia University during the late 1990s and remained a couple for a decade. Throughout those years Simons maintained a steady touring schedule with the Argument while Buncher performed drums in multiple ensembles before settling in New York and taking a position at Arista Records. Only after both had moved to Pittsburgh did Buncher disclose that she was gay, prompting the end of their romantic relationship. Simons then relocated to Los Angeles in pursuit of a solo career. Instead of severing their connection, the split prompted a fresh creative partnership. Buncher soon joined Simons on stage as his backing drummer for several performances. Those appearances sparked online songwriting sessions that gradually evolved into a proper band, with the two openly addressing their shared history in the material they composed. Their debut EP, The Sequel, appeared in 2013, after which Buncher herself relocated to Los Angeles. Subsequent live work included opening dates for OneRepublic, Skylar Grey, and additional acts. Signing with Rostrum Records, they issued the full-length album TeamMate in 2017, highlighting their signature blend of yearning melodies and upbeat '80s synth-pop influences.