Song of the Day: FAMY - A Ho A Hand

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. Today’s song, featured on the Morning Show with John Richards, is “A Ho A Hand” by FAMY from the 2014 Donkey EP on Transgressive Records.

FAMY – A Ho A Hand (MP3)

Obviously, FAMY appreciates fun. Avid soccer fans, the four-piece is playful and rousing. They work together to bring upbeat songs that still have roots in big drum kicks and an almost-Irish flare. You can picture this band feeling very comfortable in a corner pub on a misty day, sipping pints, picking up acoustic guitars, hand drums, whistles, maybe even a violin to create something wonderful for the patrons around them. Part Lumineers, part early-90's U2, and part something all their own, FAMY brings to life a sound that fills the cobblestone streets and alleys of some almost-forgotten town — almost because, if not for the group, there would be a lot less fun to be had!

The video for FAMY's song, "A Ho a Hand", er, illuminates the group's humorous and playful side, while also focusing on their penchant for the subversive. With a catchy acoustic guitar playing in the background, surrounded by deep drums and full-chorus-like vocals, the four members of FAMY sit still with light slowly creeping upon them to bring the band out of the darkness the video begins with. At first we don't know what is going on, then things become a bit more clear. Perhaps it's a metaphor for the band's journey to success, perhaps it's something they decided to do on a whim. Either way, it's captivating.

FAMY has a bunch of European tour dates scheduled but no US dates just yet. You can check in with their website and Facebook page to see as new plans emerge. In the meantime, check out the video for "A Ho a Hand" here: