Article and Photos by: Linda Carlson

Cincinnati, OH – Lake Street Dive is an eclectic band that is difficult to describe in a way that completely captures both their musical style and their stage presence.  How do you best convey the popular appeal of a band comprised of a lead singer (Rachael Price) with steamy, old school vocals, a classy upright bassist (Bridget Kearney) with flair and panache, a soulful keyboardist (Akie Bermiss), a danceworthy, headband-wearing drummer (Mike Calabrese) and an ever-so-cool guitarist (James Cornelison)?  They are bluesy, jazzy, folksy and soulful for sure, but there is so much more.

Formed around 2004 at the New England Conservatory of Music, this Brooklyn-based band has drawn dedicated fans through their smooth, soothing, upbeat songs.  Their jazz roots are infused in their music, and also in their live performances.

Price is a graceful singer, elegantly sashaying across the stage in a silky dress that swished and swayed with her every move.  Supported by her bandmates, the overall feeling was uplifting and indeed joyful.  Fans immersed themselves in inspiring ballads and playful strains.

The band is promoting their latest album (their eighth!), Good Together, created to channel joy as a healing salve for the chaotic, uncertain times in which we find ourselves.

Their setlist was incredible, notably bringing Side Pony back, with the band coming to the front of the stage to playfully sing acoustic tunes:

1. Good Together
2. Far Gone
3. Better Not Tell You
4. Hypotheticals
5. Seats at the Bar
6. Get Around
7. Better Than
8. Baby, Don’t Leave Me Alone With My Thoughts
9. Making Do
10. Side Pony
11. Neighbor Song
12. Help Is On the Way
13. Call Off Your Dogs
14. Still The One
15. Twenty Five
16. Walking Uphill
17. Party On The Roof
18. Dance With A Stranger
19. Smooth

Encore

20. Set Sail
21. Rich Girl
22. Good Kisser

Opener The Lemon Twigs are a throwback to simpler, easier rock music, and were an inspired pairing for Lake Street Dive.  Their look, feel and vibe are right out of a 1960s Ed Sullivan show featuring bands like the early Beatles.  From their haircuts to their groovy easy-flowing rock music, all that was needed were bell bottom hip-hugger jeans to complete the retro look.  The band is young and full of promise.

The tour continues stateside into October, then moves to Europe in January.  Check their website (link) for a performance near you.

Check the photos in the carousel below for more photos from the Cincinnati performance.