The Bay Area dark pop project Decant has carved out a distinctive voice in independent music, crafting emotionally resonant soundscapes that have now reached Hollywood’s silver screen. Their songs ‘Rest’ and ‘Shadows’ are featured in the end credits of “Rust,” which premiered at Camerimage Film Festival in November 2024.
What began as Joey Verdian’s songwriting venture in 2016 evolved into something more profound in 2020 when vocalist Freddie Bytheway (Lilie Bytheway-Hoy) and Van Jackson-Weaver, both alumni of Bay Area art pop band Yassou, joined forces with the project. Alongside drummer Thelonius Quimby, they’ve cultivated a unique sonic landscape that seamlessly merges electronic elements with organic instrumentation.
The band’s name reflects their creative philosophy – much like the careful process of decanting wine, they transform complex emotions into tangible experiences through sound. Bytheway’s distinctive approach to songwriting, often working in public spaces while embracing the paradox of being “alone in a crowd,” has helped shape their introspective nature. Their meticulous bedroom studio recordings have earned critical acclaim, with publications describing their work as “mesmeric” and “rapturously soothing.”
Their inclusion in “Rust” marks a significant milestone in their journey. The Western film, which tells the story of an aging outlaw trying to save his nephew in 1880s Kansas, features Decant’s atmospheric compositions during its end credits. The band’s exploration of themes like loss and transformation naturally complements the film’s narrative of redemption and familial bonds.
Looking ahead to their upcoming EP in early 2025, Decant continues to push creative boundaries while maintaining their artistic integrity. Their success in balancing authentic expression with broader appeal, particularly through non-traditional channels like film soundtracks, provides an inspiring example for independent artists navigating today’s complex music landscape. Through their thoughtful approach to composition and production, they continue to shape the evolution of dark pop while staying true to their creative principles.