by Dana Schwartz
Is there a better way to welcome July than coming to hear some live music? Didn’t think so. Check out our monthly Spotify Playlist to familiarize yourself with these talented artists!
Tank and the Bangas “Oh Heart” (July 11)
From Tank and the Bangas 2013 album, Think Tank, “Oh Heart” is the perfect blend of rhythmic soul and spoken word. Unique instrumentation paired with the various musical techniques of the Bangas is what makes them one of the most distinctive groups to emerge from New Orleans. It’s not surprising that NPR recently named the band as the 2017 Tiny Desk Contest Winners- their style is unlike any other. Hope you got your tickets to their July 11th show because it’s sold out!
Okkervil River “Lost Coastlines” (July 26)
“Lost Coastlines,” from Okkervil River’s album The Stand Ins, features the beautiful voice of lead singer Will Sheif, as well as layered string and horn instrumentation. With a sound similar to Neutral Milk Hotel and The Decembrists, this indie-rock and folk-rock group makes music that is easy on your ears. Their 2016 album, “Away” was deemed one of the best records of 2016 by media including Wall Street Journal and The Atlantic. In order to promote this new album, the group has announced a special limited run of intimate acoustic trio shows, and we’re excited to host their performance.
FORQ “Starchy” (July 31)
With Rudder founder Henry Hey on keyboards, Snarky Puppy founder and Grammy Award-winner Michael League on bass, Foe Destroyer founder and fellow Snarky Puppy member Chris McQueen on guitar, and Jason “JT” Thomas on drums, FORQ is an, “all-star ensemble of sorts – but with the spirit and cohesiveness of a garage band.” Straight off their debut album, FORQ, “Starchy” is an upbeat and catchy tune with the same playful and soulful energy which characterizes the rest of their music. Come to World Cafe Live to see them on their first-ever international tour!
