Artist Profile: The Explorers Club
This six-piece band hails from South Carolina. They make up one of the eight artists on their record label, Dead Oceans…but none of that is really important.
What’s important is that these seven musicians account for a total of three guitarists, three pianists, five vocalists, two bassists, an accordion player, a mandolin player, and a drummer. What’s even more important is that they can take this musical aptitude and use it to create warm, summery harmonies that are as catchy as anything you’ve ever heard.
Who are there influences? Well, if you’ve already listened to The Explorers Club, then you know that the Beach Boys reign over their sound; in nothing but positive ways, mind you. In fact, the only way to mistake this influence would be if you thought you were actually listening to the Beach Boys (which I’ve, admittedly, mistakenly done while re-entering the room).
Is this why CSMB loves The Explorers Club so much right now, because we love the Beach Boys? It might have something to do with it, but the band is not just a really good Beach Boys cover band, that happens to not play Beach Boys songs. They write excellent songs of their own and their debut album, Freedom Wind, is out May 20th… just in time for summer. Also, the guys have been kind enough to create a Muxtape of their music that consists of some familiar tunes as well as a new one (Hold Me Tight). They will also be adding one new song every Monday until Freedom Wind‘s release on May 20th.
For more information, Mike Mineo has a great write-up on the band over at his blog Obscure Sound.
All in all, I think The Explorers Club is going to grow into one of my favorite bands. I think they’re the most refreshing thing I’ve heard since Dr. Dog’s latest album, We All Belong and I can’t wait to hear Freedom Wind.
