photo by Gregory A. Perez
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 featured selection, chosen by Afternoon Show host Kevin Cole, is Get Out
by The Shackeltons from their 2008 self-titled album on Loveless Records.
Lead singer Mark Redding takes his conversational singing cues from another Redding — yes, Otis. But don’t expect any sweet, soulful balladry but rather a mind-bending adventure as lyrics and melodies mesh, alternating between the lulling and the suspenseful. Get Out
is a prime example of the Pennsylvania quintets distinct songwriting and unique brand of storytelling. I first experienced The Shackeltons live, watching Redding maneuver the stage with reckless abandon, nearly trampling bandmates and the flowers they typically cast about the stage. This is punk music that knows how to chill out, reviving their Joy Division and Fugazi influences in all their raw yet conscious ways. It’s no wonder John Richards and Co. at Loveless took this young band on. Though half their upcoming tour is at Austin’s SXSW, check their MySpace page for other upcoming dates but only after watching this video for The Breaks,
directed by Sam Jones (director of the Wilco doc I Am Trying To Break Your Heart):
