Article Index

Photo by Jarrod McCabe

A YouTube video sparked public interest in jazz-pop act Lake Street Dive, and that appears to be all they needed. The group’s rendition of Michael Jackson’s “I Want You Back” perfectly captured the essence of its music—as soulful harmonies and an old-fashion sound make every track a unique experience.

The band has released multiple albums over the past few years, but 2014’s 11-track offering, Bad Self Portraits, in many ways serves as a proper introduction. The set perfectly showcases lead singer Rachael Price’s powerhouse vocal abilities. accompanied by Mike Olsen on the trumpet/guitar, bassist Bridget Kearney and Mike Calabrese on the drums.

With their talents combined, fans are taken back to a simpler time in music, when instrument work trumped digital effects and vocalists sang with emotion in their voices.

For new fans, start with the track “Better Than.” Price’s vocals are on full display, as the band chimes in with a full complement of instrumentation. Follow it up with “Use Me Up,” and the upbeat tempo and foot-tap-inducing sound will win over even the harshest of critics. There is truly something on the album for everyone.

For more information, follow them on Twitter: @LakeStreetDive. Their music can be found on iTunes and Spotify, while they are also playing shows in the United States through the fall.