Just yesterday we were commenting on the thriving music scene in Oakland, and the quintet known as Waterstrider is another shining example of this. The group released their debut LP, Nowhere Now independently in April and are hitting the road in support of Trails Of Ways later this month. Although the entire album is quality, the title track is a brilliant example of what the group is capable of with its tropical percussion, warm, wistful melodies, and soaring falsetto vocals from Nate Salman (which at times resemble Michael Angelakos’ of Passion Pit).
The five-piece have also shared a new song called “Frayed” that will be featured on a compilation album of Bay Area artists by new label OIM Records, due out June 23. Incorporating afro-beat rhythms, heavy synth lines and infectious hooks into the lighter number, it might be out favorite Waterstrider track yet. Talking to PopMatters, Salman explained that “‘Frayed’ came from an experience of pure bliss and confusion bundled together: the un-satisfaction of temporary romance, and the struggle to maintain sanity in the midst of a magical moment.”
Stream both tunes below and if you’re in the DC area, be sure to catch their set at DC9 June 14.
Waterstrider Upcoming Tour Dates:
5/28 Oakland – Leo’s
6/6 Los Angeles – The Bootleg HiFi
6/7 Phoenix – Valley Bar
6/9 Austin – Red 7
6/10 Dallas – Club Dada
6/12 Atlanta – 529
6/13 Chapel Hill – Local 506
6/14 Washington, D.C. – DC9
6/16 Philadelphia – Kung Fu Necktie
6/18 New York City – Mercury Lounge
6/19 Boston – Red Room @ Cafe 939
6/20 Brooklyn – Palisades
6/22 Cleveland – Beachland Tavern
6/23 Chicago – Schubas Tavern
6/24 St. Paul – Turf Club
6/26 Denver – Larimer Lounge
6/27 Salt Lake City – Kilby Court
7/10 San Francisco – Great American Music Hall
poetry in an empty coke can 