By Doug “Igoto” Dresher
Sometimes a new band, (new to me anyways,) sneaks up on you and smacks you right in the face. And it feels good.
The High Divers came through Asbury Park, NJ with little fanfare. They played at the venerable club The Saint, which, is essentially the coolest place on earth since the demise of Asbury Lanes. I knew nothing of the band, but felt like going out to take some pictures.
What a wonderful surprise.
The High Divers are a perfect amalgam of their influences. And there are many:
Vampire Weekend
Fleetwood Mac
Wilco (Nels Cline specifically)
Steve Gadd (The drummer)
Tom Petty(ish) (</3)
The Band (post Dylan)
Paul Simon’s rhythm section
And while those influences are there, the music is wholly original.
This is happy music, Americana throughout; thoughtful, melodic, rhythmic.
This is the kind of music you want to blast while driving a convertible. Not a muscle car or convertible, perhaps, something like an older Impala. Just saying.
This is summer afternoon outdoor music. This is Sunday morning fireplace music – made for dancing in your thick socks. This is hot cocoa music, good coffee music, music to share with the friends you have who like to be “in the know” – this is the “in the know” band.
Oh, they also have a trumpet player in the band. I’m sold!
Their album, Riverlust, available on Spotify, gives the listener a great taste of the band. It is well recorded and sounds perfect on headphones. But their live show completes the picture.
This is smart music. This music makes you want to hug your wife. This is a band that would be perfect for a Tiny Desk Concert on NPR.
The High Divers are on tour for what seems like a very long trip through the Southern states.
I wouldn’t lie – this is a really, really good band. Really.
Have some photographs.
Scene and Herd – The High Divers Live Review & Photos by Doug “Igoto” Dresher
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