As Britney Spears and boy bands alike continue to grace our radio waves with their repetitive and monotonous sound, it is a wonder how our musical souls have managed to survive. Thankfully, every once in awhile, a band is born that is able to give you the musical revival you've been in need of … the hardest part is finding them.
The Tea Cozies, a relatively unknown band, serve up the originality and ingenuity that you've been craving.
Based out of Seattle, the Tea Cozies have managed to create a sound that is all their own on their debut self-titled E.P. They were officially formed in December 2005 after the three original female members, Jessi Reed (guitar and vocals), Brady Harvey (guitar, vocals and keys) and Kelly Viergutz (drums) were joined by the "brave" lone male member of the group, Jeff Anderson (bass). Together they have concocted a unique sound that has begun to grow in popularity amongst the local Seattle music scene.
Their sound is difficult to put a finger on. They seem to be a mix of Indie and old school British pop, but it really depends on what track you're listening to at the moment. One reporter from the "Portland Mercury" said the Tea Cozies sound like "…if Deerhoof popped a chill pill and started hanging with the Rondelles." The band itself claims to be "the bastard child of Elastica and the Talking Heads." Yet, no matter the category, the music is nothing short of stellar.
The two lead singers, Reed and Harvey, have completely contrasting voices that add depth and interest to their songs. Reed brings a soft sweet sound to the tracks while Harvey's raspy, harsh voice adds a necessary ruggedness. The juxtaposing voices are on perfect display on the track "Tranciting" which is by far the best and most upbeat song on the track. However, the more somber tracks, also featured on the album, should not be ignored. "Olivia" is an intense and deep track with lyrics worth listening intently to. The only complaint I have about the group is that there are only five tracks on the album.
While their E.P. is revolutionary, the best way to experience the Tea Cozies is live. They put on a great show, complete with sarcastic commentary and goofy personalities. Somehow I managed to stumble upon the Tea Cozies playing a live concert this summer in Seattle and was instantly hooked. The Tea Cozies alone are worth the journey to the rainy Northwest. The best way to keep up on the band's newest tracks is through their myspace music page, which also announces their upcoming show schedule.
With their unique and unheard sound, the Tea Cozies are the band that your soul's been waiting for.
