LIVE Todd Kessler and the New Folk When: 8 p.m. Nov. 24 Where: Schubas Tavern, 3159 N. Southport Ave. Tickets: $12 at schubas.com
By Matt Kuhnen For RedEye
Northbrook native and singer-songwriter Todd Kessler began his music career in 2007 with a handful of songs and a couple of hired musicians.
Kessler's new studio project, Todd Kessler and the New Folk, boasts a roster of nine musicians, each of them bringing something different to the smorgasbord of sound. "The new songs have developed quite differently than the old material," Kessler told RedEye. "I sort of give everyone the chance to let their [musical] instincts take over when a song is first conceived and build the song upon whatever happens naturally in the moment." Kessler chatted about the direction of New Folk's tunes and the group's upcoming live debut.
How would you describe your sound? I always describe our sound as
"Alt-Folk-Pop." In terms of the influences that are there, it's
definitely rooted in folk, but I don't shy away from big arrangements
and dramatic songs where pop and alternative influences shine through.
What can people expect for your upcoming show at Schubas? Well,
they can expect to get their minds blown that's for sure. [Laughs.] For
people who have seen us, they will hear some new songs. For people who
haven't seen us, they will be in for a good show with great supporting
acts and incredible musicianship.
What is your message behind the song "Tomorrow"? It's
from the last EP, "Boomerang," and its very similar to what we are
trying to do musically as band right now. I wrote it in response to
another one of my songs that was very politically driven called
"Tomorrow is Better Than Today." So "Tomorrow" ... really completes the
thought of what one can hope for in a new day. How was it working with Lupe Fiasco producer Greg Majers? He has produced all of my previous stuff as well, so it was a great experience as usual.
What is next for the you and the New Folk? I
would love for someone to pay us to finish this record. [Laughs.] We
are focused on shopping the new recordings around to as many labels as
possible and hoping for the best.
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