19 Mar Local Natives: Part 1
There are so many things to love about West Palm’s waterfront festival, and SunFest’s commitment to highlighting local bands is near the top of my heart’s list. Talented artists from all over our sunshine state are invited to South Florida to perform. This year is no exception.
Here is part one of my spotlight on homegrown bands we will see in just a few weeks.
The Hip Abduction
Members: David New, Pat Klemawesch, Chris Powers, Dave Johnson, Paul Chlapowski, and Matt Poynter
Hometown: St. Petersburg, Florida
Listen up: The old saying goes, “Don’t judge a book based on its cover,” and the same thing can be said for band names. Well, I’m judging already and it’s in this band’s favor. Just glancing at the lineup I know that I’m not going to be standing still at this show.
This six-piece act calls their sound “wanderlust-inspired global pop,” and their sunshine songs are decorated with African string instruments, reggae undertones, and afro-beat percussion. They have an impressive social media following and boast their self-titled release debuted at #5 on the Billboard Reggae charts (2013).
I’m terribly excited to see this act live. It’s always nice to see a crowd on a stage, and a quick Google search shows rave reviews from other journalists who have had the pleasure of seeing THA in person. The band’s beach-bred sounds will be a perfect fit with SunFest.
Song: “Holiday”
Dear Tatiana
Members: Thayne Brown, Michael Fallas, Micahel Gonzalez, and Hunter Burdette
Hometown: Orlando, Florida
Listen up: Just a few seconds into Dear Tatiana’s first song and I was convinced I made a mistake. I flipped through 30 open browser tabs trying to find if I hit play on the wrong artist. This act is a deadringer for Childish Gambino, and that’s the compliment of the year. (I definitely hit the right play button). The hip-hop group actually lists Gambino as an inspirational act (as well as Gym Class Heroes and Jake Miller) and my ears like what they hear.
I have to force myself to take “The Morning After” off repeat. I love the medley of sassy, sharp lyrics layered over unexpected noises like electronic beats and sparkling xylophone pings. I’m just going to go ahead and move this song into my “Happy Hour” playlist right now.
I can’t wait to see what Dear Tatiana has up their sleeves for us in person.
Song: “The Morning After”
Jumbo Shrimp
Members: Ben Rothschild, Angel Leiser, John Cardillo, Dylan Thomas, and Austin Klewan
Hometown: Palm Beach, Florida
Listen up: This band immediately impresses me for two reasons: One, their name is awesome. Two, they are self-described as a psychedelic rock band of teenagers.
Jumbo Shrimp is a very local act that covers hits from our favorite bands like Led Zeppelin and Foo Fighters. While you can get excited about hearing this budding group of rockstars cover great songs, they’ll also throw some original works into the mix.
Their second EP, Nostalgia Calls, is due this spring.
Talent can be developed, but some people were washed in it right out of the womb. This group of teens is the latter, and all of them have a brilliant future ahead. Do not miss this show.
Song: “She Walks By”
There are a lot more talented bands to be listed! Check back next week for more!