Edmonton duo Mox Jet on their recent release and what’s next

Mox Jet is an Edmonton based, 80s inspired darkwave synth duo made up of Daniel Sedmark and Taylor Jade. Coming off their latest release, Vol. 1, they sat down with The Gateway to chat about the release and what’s next for them. 

Sedmark said that some modern acts like Molchat Doma and Black Marble are inspirations. But, being mainly 80s inspired, bands like Joy Division, The Cure, and New Order are a big part as well. “All the classic goth stuff,” he added. 

Sedmark explained that the recent release is more of a mixtape of previous recordings, and that their next will be “a more cohesive, actionable product.” He added that it’s more of “an intro to the band.” 

On what they’re hoping audiences take away from the recent release, Jade said “a good time,” Sedmark added “a sad-good time.” The mixtape is four songs, with the band agreeing that there’s a mix between up-beat and somber sounds. 

“That was our worlds colliding,” Jade says

Overall, Jade described Mox Jet as “poppy, dancey, fun, but sad.”

On this mixture of somber and up-beat sounds, Jade used the song “Leaving” as an example. She explained that the song predates Mox Jet. She said while they had their own projects going on, Sedmark wrote the instrumental and it felt suited to her. Jade said it felt like something “[she] would write. That was our worlds colliding.”

Between the two of them, Sedmark is more musically up-beat and Jade is more somber, creating a balance. 

Their latest project was also released on cassette. On the decision to do so, Sedmark said that he has “always been a big cassette guy. Vinyl would be the dream, but it’s so expensive and so much work.”

Jade added that “there’s also a comeback in vintage gear and that analog sound. And it fits our vibe too.” 

They feel they’re more suited for cassette and analog sound as well. Sedmark said “it’s a very welcoming scene. You can be sketchy at first, and nobody hates you. It was good to grow into.” 

Going into the summer, they’re opening Verboden Fest in Vancouver on May 11, and are looking into a tour of Alberta. 

Their newest release, Vol. 1 is available on Spotify and Bandcamp. Cassettes are available on Bandcamp or locally at Edmonton’s Blackbyrd Myoozik.