photo by Jackie Canchola
(more photos)
Every Monday through Friday, we deliver a different song as part of 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. Each and every Friday we offer songs by local artists. Today’s selection, featured on the Midday Show with Cheryl Waters, is “The Great Rivers” by These United States from What Lasts on United Interests.
DC’s Jesse Elliot, These United States‘ backbone, singer, and songwriter is in love with this country. Claiming there’s no state he doesn’t love, touring in a band is the perfect outfit. With a rotating supporting cast, Elliot sometimes rolls with a full band, and sometimes tours with a stripped down trio.
“The Great Rivers” is motivating with the densely packed and methodically arranged instrumentation, seems to have travel as a central theme. It is upbeat folk, and melodic Americana. Elliot’s Springsteinian inflections are hard to miss, and the raspy interjection popping up in the phrasing is the cherry on top. These United States are conquering a hefty tour for the rest of the summer, including an appearance at Pickathon outside of Portland this weekend, so check out their MySpace page for details! Enjoy this takeaway show from La Blogotheque of “Water and Wheat”:
