Vulfmon & Evangeline hit a creative sweet spot with their 2023 single “Chicago Summer,” a soulful, groove-driven track that blends retro funk influences with a modern indie pop sensibility. The song was released as part of Vulfmon’s 2023 project, “Here If You Want It,” which features a variety of guest vocalists.
“Chicago Summer” quickly became a fan favorite among both Vulfpeck enthusiasts and new listeners discovering the unique collaboration between Vulfmon (the solo project of Jack Stratton, founder of Vulfpeck) and rising UK vocalist Evangeline. The track gained significant streaming traction on platforms like Spotify and YouTube, though it did not enter mainstream Billboard charts.
As with much of Vulfmon’s work, the song was composed by Jack Stratton, with lyrical and vocal contributions from Evangeline Eastwood, who brings a warm, airy vocal tone that perfectly matches the laid-back, funky vibe of the track.
The Story Behind Vulfmon & Evangeline
For those new to the scene, Vulfmon is the solo alias of Jack Stratton, best known as the leader and creative force behind the band Vulfpeck, a Michigan-born funk collective known for viral hits like “Back Pocket” and “Dean Town”.
Evangeline, a UK-based singer-songwriter, has been gaining recognition for her soulful, jazz-tinged vocals and introspective songwriting. This collaboration marked one of her first major appearances on the American funk/indie pop scene.
The partnership between Vulfmon & Evangeline was a perfect match—merging Stratton’s minimalist production and quirky musical sensibilities with Evangeline’s emotional, light, and melodic vocal delivery.
On the Music Video: A One-Take Wonder
The music video for “Chicago Summer” debuted on Vulfmon’s official YouTube channel in August 2023. Directed by Jack Stratton himself, the video embraces Vulfpeck’s signature lo-fi, DIY aesthetic.
Shot in a single continuous take, the video features Evangeline performing the song in an apartment living room, lip-syncing with casual charm while Jack Stratton occasionally makes background appearances.
There’s no traditional choreography, but the video captures the feeling of a lazy summer afternoon, much like the song title suggests. Fans loved the simplicity and authentic vibes of the shoot. The videography was handled by longtime Vulf collaborator Cory Wong, and the color grading stays true to the vintage Vulfpeck visual style.
Watch the official video here:
Chicago Summer – Vulfmon & Evangeline (Official Video)
Talk Nerdy to Me: Music Theory Nuggets from “Chicago Summer”
For music theory nerds, “Chicago Summer” is a treasure trove of subtle musical craftsmanship.
Here are a few highlights:
- Chord Progressions: The song primarily revolves around a simple but effective IV-I-VI-V progression in the key of D Major, lending a feel-good, nostalgic vibe.
- Groove and Rhythm: True to Vulfmon’s style, the groove is tight but laid-back, with a swung sixteenth-note feel that subtly nods to classic Motown and 70s soul.
- Vocal Arrangement: The harmonies are layered softly, with Evangeline providing both lead and backing vocals, creating a dreamy, airy texture.
- Mix and Mastering: The mix keeps the kick drum and bass up front, typical of Vulfpeck-style production, while leaving room for the delicate vocal lines.
- Easter Eggs: Around the 2:00 mark, you can hear Jack Stratton whispering subtle ad-libs in the background—a classic Stratton move for fans listening with headphones.
For music production fans, this track is a masterclass in minimalism meeting groove.
More from Vulfmon & Evangeline: Songs You Shouldn’t Miss
If you enjoyed “Chicago Summer”, here are more tracks by Vulfmon & Evangeline (and related projects) that you should definitely check out:
More from Vulfmon:
- “Serve Somebody” (from the same album Here If You Want It)
- “Lonely Town” (Jack Stratton cover featuring soulful arrangements)
More from Evangeline:
- “Eva in the Oak Tree” (Her solo single with folk-pop vibes)
- “Exhaust” (Live acoustic performance)
More from the Vulfpeck universe:
Each of these tracks showcases the signature DIY, funk-pop charm that both Vulfmon & Evangeline bring to their music.
