Toronto-based Lucky Variety is an inter-genre musical project by DJ-producer TLO and singer-songwriter Estyr, mixing neo-soul and alt-RnB into a fresh sonic salad. TLO is a champion turntablist, Juno Award-winning producer, and official tour DJ for Shad. Estyr is a solo artist and co-founder of chamber pop band Tiger Balme. 'Status Anxiety' released November 2023 followed by more singles and a debut album. The project incorporates TLO’s beat-making and production skills with Estyr’s ethereal vocals and lyrics, drawing on influences such as Little Dragon, Lianne La Havas, and Esthero. The album explores themes of disconnection, loneliness, and community, emerging from two years of remote work and an another year of in-person collaboration in TLO’s Chinatown studio, fueled by Chinese BBQ and bubble tea.
OTHER HIGHLIGHTS
x Additional production credits on the album include Robotaki, Kei-li, Momento Mori, Max Zipursky, and Brandon Davis.
x Opened for Lex Leosis and Sebastian Gaskin (Universal Music) at Wavelength’s Big Summer Thing (August 2023).
x Summer single “Sunbeam (Remix)” features Shad.
x Opened for Lex Leosis and Sebastian Gaskin (Universal Music) at Wavelength’s Big Summer Thing (August 2023).
x Summer single “Sunbeam (Remix)” features Shad.
TLO by Felice Trinidad with grooming by Alanna Fennell
Estyr by Felice Trinidad with hair and makeup by Alanna Fennell
TERENCE “TLO” LO
Based out of Toronto Canada, TLO was raised by the turntablist culture during the golden era of DJ battles in the late 90's. TLO uses audio samples from vinyl of various artists to paint audioscapes utilizing turntable techniques. He is known for his musical and harmonic style of mixing. TLO achieved success in the DJ battle circuit; winning a national title and representing Canada at the DMC world Finals in London UK in 2007, and took home the sought after US Scribble Jam DJ title in 2008. He continues to produce, showcase and tour with Juno award winning artist / rapper Shad.
ESTHER “ESTYR” PHUA
Estyr is a singer, songwriter, and guitarist whose music delves into themes of liminality and her suburban upbringing. With 6+ years of experience in performance, writing, composing, and recording, In November 2022, Estyr's band Tiger Balme released their self-titled debut album. Estyr co-founded this chamber pop group in 2017 as a platform for Chinese femme and non-binary individuals to share their stories through music. Estyr's previous solo work including her EP All Tied Up (2021) produced by Rob McLay has garnered attention and playlisting/radio play from Exclaim! and CBC Music.