You've probably watched a lot of our in-studio videos, but you probably haven't seen one quite like this one from Seattle's eccentric, Johnny Cash-saddled Brent Amaker and the Rodeo. Having been around for ten years, Brent Amaker and the Rodeo certainly have their sound and live performance down pat. First off, there's Mr. Amaker's zany, frontman personality and Sam Elliott-deep voice that he uses to sing lyrics like "I've got eyes for you, you know I do / everyone else can go to hell." He entertainingly begins the set coming up to the mic, taking off his cloak, and being dressed up with his guitar while his band serenades him via their foot-stomping, twangy opener. Also, there're subtle quirks lurking in the shadows. When's the last time you heard xylophone riffs and saw Zorro masks in alt country? Then there's the eye-catching, B&W quality of the video offset by dramatically stark lighting, which complements the intentional aesthetic of the band. Moreover, the band plays a completely fluid set leaving DJ Troy Nelson's interview until the end where they then talk about some rules of the Rodeo, staying in costume (even on airplanes), and the reason behind their setlist artwork. Check out the sensational spectacle that is Brent Amaker and the Rodeo below:
"You don't need to do that same ol' shtick." That's apparently what Aaron Dessner of The National told Scott Hutchison, founder and frontman of UK group Frightened Rabbit. Since their 2003 debut album, the Scottish group have become known for their anthemic guitar-based songs, punctuated with lyric…
Every Monday through Friday, we deliver a different song as part our Song of the Day podcast subscription. This podcast features exclusive KEXP in-studio performances, unreleased songs, and recordings from independent artists that our DJs think you should hear. Today’s song, featured on the Midday …
Seattle's J-Justice (a.k.a. Jason Justice) has been a trusted local favorite behind the turntables for over a decade now, helping ignite the influential SunTzu and TRUST dance parties. Originally a native of the Philadelphia area, Justice brings a love for warm, soulful, and progressive grooves bot…
Welcome to Pickathon's 2016 Spring Season. Each week, the rustically set, Portland-area festival is running an ambitious program of four new episodes. Through twelve individual channels of content, you can experience this one-of-a-kind festival in the most intimate of ways... you'll go, On The Farm…
