photography: press
The elegance of French funk meeting the ease of indie feels like a road you don’t mind getting lost on. That is exactly where Ptelicans, the collaboration between French producer Pastel and American singer-songwriter Nic Hanson, find their rhythm. Coming from different musical backgrounds, the two meet somewhere in the middle, creating a sound that feels like the best of both worlds. With “Driving Solo,” Ptelicans offer another glimpse into their artistic journey ahead of the release of their debut album, Wasted, arriving on October 16.
The duo first crossed paths in London, where spontaneous jam sessions turned into something neither of them had planned. Pastel brings his forward-thinking production style and French funk influences, while Nic Hanson adds a soulful voice rooted in classic soul and modern nu-funk. Together, they follow intuition rather than formulas. Their creative process is guided by what they call the “art of under-thinking”—trusting the moment, following the vibe and seeing where it leads. Perhaps that’s one of the most beautiful things about making music: letting go of expectations and allowing something honest to find its way.
Their new single “Driving Solo” captures exactly that spirit. Built around an easy-going bassline, clean rhythms and an effortless groove, the song is less about being alone than about moving forward on your own terms. There is a sense of freedom running through it, the kind that comes with open roads, late-night drives and trusting your own direction. Nostalgic touches sit comfortably next to a modern production, making the track feel timeless without looking backwards.
So whether you’re behind the wheel, walking through the city or simply looking for something to soundtrack the slower moments of your day, press play and let “Driving Solo” take you there.
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