Live at Röda, Steyr, Austria 4-19-08
photo by fffriendly
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 Midday Show host Cheryl Waters, is Electric City
by Firewater from the 2008 album The Golden Hour on Bloodshot Records.
Three years ago, fed up with his situation in New York, Tod A (vocals, bass) decided to visit the places the US typically bombs, taking with him nothing more than some clothes and a laptop. After a few years of immersing himself in the culture of the greater Middle East, Tod escaped with ill health and a stirring fear of kidnapping. But he took away numerous tracks from throughout his travels, recorded with musicians from throughout the region using a single microphone and his laptop. Putting a multicultural spin on punk rock is nothing new for Tod, who once fronted Cop Shoot Cop, immersing himself in a movement that would give rise to bands like Gogol Bordello and Beirut. Drummer Tamir Muskat, who produced, mixed and performed on The Golden Hour, also plays sticks for Balkan Beat Box. Tod’s travels, combined with his experience in the genre, have led to his most focused record yet. Each track, no matter how acrimonious the political sentiment, is steeped in melody and generous instrumental complexity. Firewater will be in Seattle 6/3 performing at Chop Suey. The following video provides more of the great story behind the making of the album:
