Local Flavor: The No-Nation Orchestra

Thus far, local music hasn't been much of a focus on Chewing Gum for the Ears, but when I find something special so close to home, I'm not exactly one to keep it to myself. The No-Nation Orchestra, led by multi-instrumentalist and songwriter Stephen Chai, is one group in the SLC area reminding me of the talent and creativity abundant here if you're simply willing to look around a bit.

Chai has been involved in a handful of bands over the past few years, but none more exciting than this latest project, which finds him leading a skillful quartet that blends elements of Afrobeat and Latin jazz with a melodic pop approach. The band's upcoming debut EP, entitled More More More, is set to drop later this month and serves as a convincing introduction to the excellence of the No-Nation Orchestra.

On the opener/title track (which you can hear below) Chai floats his soulful falsetto over groovy, complex rhythms and killer horn riffs, while "Holy Holy" throws in a flashy piano line and an almost sinister vocal melody you'll find difficult to get out of your head. If I had to pick, I'd say the incendiary "Find Me The Savory Sound" is my current favorite -- but that's like to change tomorrow as each of the EP's five tracks have only gotten better with every spin.

Whether you're looking for the best of what Salt Lake City has to offer or perusing the web for a genuinely inspired new band, Stephen Chai & The No-Nation Orchestra is a must-listen. Hear the single below and check out the band's homepage for pre-orders. Also, if you're a local, make sure to catch them at Urban Lounge on September 23rd for the album release show.


http://nonationorchestra.com/

SLC Concerts on The Yellow Stereo

So Salt lake City, Utah isn't exactly the indie music capital of America, but there's more going on at the venues here than many might expect. I don't make it up for as many shows as I would like and it's difficult to keep track of who's playing where, so I was excited to come across The Yellow Stereo. It's a blog that focuses exclusively on Salt Lake concerts, specifically the indie stuff, and it has a good list of upcoming shows as well as videos, chances to win tickets, etc.

Anyway, check it out The Yellow Stereo if you're in Utah.

First up on my list to see is Fanfarlo with April Smith & The Great Picture Show. Fanfarlo is a band I fell in love with last year and April Smith is a new talent I've only just had the pleasure of hearing, but I'm expecting both to be excellent.









They're going to be at The Urban Lounge this Saturday, Feb 27th.

Fanfarlo - MySpace

April Smith & The Great Picture Show - MySpace

Movie Loves a Screen (MP3)