California’s indie Americana folk band LA River Bend is a quartet that is building their reputation on poetic lyrics, catchy melodies, intricate guitar parts and creative vocal harmonies all dispersed through strong songwriting skills. The four-piece band is made up of: Nate Weiner (vocals, guitar), Emily Elkin (cello, vocals), Branden Stroup (bass, vocals, guitar) and Jacob Seldes (drums). LA River Bend has released a five track EP called, Run These Hills. Bringing infectious melodies with a strong front and backing vocals package, that offers hip playing and feels, the group demonstrates their melodious talents copiously. Run These Hills was entirely self-recorded by Stroup and mastered by Grammy award-winning Eric Boulanger (Eric Clapton, Iggy Pop, Green Day). That’s the short of it!
Positives:
Weiner’s strong front man vocals and the bands three-part harmonies are very creative. Mixing elements of rock, folk, and Americana with positive lyrics and fresh instrumentation, I might add, the cello is a very nice addition. Elkin and Weiner’s vocal duet on “Don't Get Lost” is a highlight track!
Bottom Line:
Mixing the sound of California with rock, folk, and Americana, LA River Bend has struck gold with its unique blend of music and vocal harmonies that bask in the rays of bright songwriting skills. The music grows organically, with the songwriting being thematically based on the symbolism of nature. The music craftily invokes a feeling and emotional response. With songwriting depths of folk melodies over rock-influenced rhythms and intricate song forms that will leave a lasting impression.