Jaco Jaco’s sophomore album Gremlin is a nostalgic dive into funk-infused indie pop, blending retro aesthetics with personal introspection. Led by Philadelphia-based Jacob Theriot, the project follows his departure from indie-rock trio Sports. While Gremlin takes its name from a lyric in the album’s closer, it embodies a spirit of playfulness and deep self-reflection rather than referencing the cult classic film. Theriot wrote Gremlin in a burst of creativity over just a few months, a process that mirrors its free-flowing, stream-of-consciousness feel. Recorded mostly alone in Philadelphia, longtime collaborator Chad Copelin contributed drums and overdubs, resulting in an album that feels intimate, curious and infectious. Musically, Gremlin fuses ‘60s psychedelia, ‘70s funk, and contemporary indie pop, aligning with the current resurgence of groove-heavy soundscapes. Theriot’s bass lines slink beneath airy falsettos and shimmering synths, creating an irresistible warmth. Tracks like “Favorite Kind of People” pulse with Brazilian funk-inspired rhythms, while “What’s It Like in the Sunshine” radiates the euphoria of stepping into daylight after a long night out. The album explores longing, self-acceptance, and the surreal nature of life. Theriot sees Gremlin as a therapeutic exercise, a sonic journal filled with childlike wonder. Even moments of melancholy maintain levity, offering escape through rhythm and melody. One of Gremlin’s most compelling aspects is its commitment to analog textures and kitsch-inspired artistry. Theriot’s love for Les Blank documentaries and oddball cultural artifacts seeps into the album, making it feel handcrafted and deeply human. Imperfections are embraced, like the last-minute addition of a trumpet and an unexpected outro in “Gremlin World,” perfectly encapsulating the album’s humor and irreverence. Gremlin is a study in contrasts—past and present, playfulness and introspection, chaos and control and embrace the weird little gremlins in your own head.