Deep in the heart of the warehouse district in Downtown LA, I had a chat with Gregory (vocals, guitar), Jade (synth), and Crystal (bass) also known as Los Angeles based dream pop outfit, Crescendo. Their debut album, “Lost Thoughts” (produced by John Kunkel of The New Division) is out today and Jade describes their sound as “delicious and buttery”. A truly original take that only someone on the inside could have. Which translates as an intriguing must listen of the fall season. In between the classic rock blaring on the speakers of the coffee shop, I got to the core of Crescendo; not only as a band but as people outside of their laid-back California sun soaked music.
While the band hails from Southern California, you really can’t help hearing the post punk sound of Northern England in their music. Maybe it’s because of singer Gregory’s influences; as he mentions that The Radio Dept. and The Smiths are some of his favorite musical artists. The rest of the band however has a more eclectic taste, ranging from Billie Holiday to black metal. All of this comes together while still blending the West Coast sound. “Let’s face it”, Jade says “California is in your DNA.” It’s hard to escape.
Their single “Gatsby” has been on heavy rotation this summer, as is their music video to accompany the track. The band gave director Sal Chavez complete creative control with his vision, and it turned out great much to the bands delight. The video creates a clean environment of the music with the mysterious identities of the bands never revealed and carrying a romantic subtext throughout.
Whether they are planning dream tours like playing alongside The Beatles, Blood Orange, or Dead Man’s Bones they are also waxing poetic on the impact the internet is making on music today. It’s a different world than 20 years ago, there is more of an opportunity to reach your music to a wider audience, Gregory says. An exciting time is definitely on the horizon.
When it comes to fashion Crescendo likes to play it cool. In unconscious dressing and it’s opposite; Gregory is currently trying to resurrect his favorite shoe gaze bands by wearing their shirts to each interview or photo shoot going forward. Jade takes her influences from Kelly Bundy and Queen Elizabeth, while Crystal prefers to let the colors speak to her.
Their new album aptly titled “Lost Thoughts”, is out today through all forms of digital distribution as well as on vinyl. It is described by the band as 11 tracks centered around romanticism, nights of long dancing, relationships, and daring to dream.
Download their new album today on iTunes and get the vinyl on their website !
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2 comments
good!