Artist Spotlight
Denver’s Psychedelic Jam Band RADO Releases First-Ever Debut Album “Baker’s Measurements”
Denver’s RADO is turning up the heat in the Mile High City with the release of their debut album, “Baker’s Measurements,” set to drop on August 9, 2024. To celebrate, they’re throwing an album release party at Cervantes’ Otherside, where their grooves are sure to get everyone dancing.
RADO has been making waves in Denver’s music scene since they formed in 2019. Their signature sound—a potent mix of psychedelic rock, funk, and electronica—has earned them a devoted following, with fans who eagerly anticipate their extended improvisational jams. Known for their live shows, RADO thrives on the connection between the band and the audience, creating a communal atmosphere where the music becomes a living, breathing entity.
“There’s something about playing live to an audience that I can’t quite describe with words, especially when you’re deep in an improv moment,” the band reflects. “I suppose the best way to put it would be ‘true presence,’ where everything is deeply connected and interwoven—the band, the audience, and the music.”
The transition from stage to studio presented a new challenge for RADO. Known for their spontaneous, jam-heavy performances, the band had to strike a balance between their freewheeling style and the more concise demands of a studio album. They embraced the opportunity to experiment with different song structures, blending tight tracks with the kind of expansive jams that fans have come to expect.
One track that showcases this duality is “The Twist.” While the live version features a lengthy intro and outro, RADO decided to trim these sections for the album. “For whatever reason, those pieces of the song just didn’t seem to connect as well in the studio,” they explain. “Sonically, we weren’t capturing the essence of the song.” However, other tracks like “Thank You Mr. Science” retain their extended jam sections, with a six-minute improvisational segment that captures the band’s live energy.
RADO’s journey to “Baker’s Measurements” has been as adventurous as their music. Following a successful spring tour that took them through eight states in fourteen days, the band returned on the road this summer. A recent three-night run in Nebraska was a highlight, with the band receiving an overwhelmingly positive response from fans. “We’ve got to give a big shout-out to our friends in Omaha,” they say. “The shows were great… I’m not sure we’ve gotten a reaction like that about our music outside of Colorado. It felt like home for sure!”
Artwork – Jackie DiNardo
The name “RADO” originated as a shorthand for Colorado, reflecting the band’s roots. A humorous twist by keyboardist James Hatch, referring to the name as “raw dough” – like what you’d make a pizza with –sparked a series of baking jokes. “We thought it was hilarious. It ultimately led to fans adopting the name ‘The Bakery,’” after the band’s friend Lucia handed out 50 baker’s hats at our 2023 Cervantes show. This playful spirit is steeped in their album title “Baker’s Measurements,” a nod to their raw, improvisational music style.
For its influences and songwriting, the band draws inspiration from a wide range of genres, blending dance, funk, rock, reggae, and jazz into a cohesive jam-band experience. Their songwriting process is collaborative, with each member bringing unique ideas to the table. The lyrics often draw from personal experiences, observations, and moments of inspiration. For instance, “Back Nine” was inspired by a memorable golf tournament, while “My Song” pays homage to a lost friend.
The songs chosen for “Baker’s Measurements” had to meet specific criteria: they needed to evoke emotional resonance, showcase musical complexity, offer a unique sound, convey a clear intention and message, align with the album’s concept, and highlight the band’s chemistry.
As RADO prepares to hit the road for more tour dates, their debut album stands as a testament to their unique blend of improvisational flair and tight, melodic songwriting. With influences ranging from The Beatles, Phish, Led Zeppelin, Grateful Dead, and Motown legends like James Jamerson and Bootsy Collins, RADO has crafted a sound that is both nostalgic and forward-thinking, inviting listeners to join them on a musical ride that is as unpredictable as it is exhilarating.
Photo – Timothy Cheatham
If you’re in Denver on August 9, don’t miss the chance to see RADO live at Cervantes’ Otherside. It’s sure to be a night of music, magic, fun, and a little bit of whimsy. Tickets are still available at: https://etix.com/ticket/p/42872630
“Baker’s Measurements” Album Track List:
- Run n’ Hyde
- Back Nine ft. Adam Langdon on percussion
- My Song
- Thank You Mr. Science
- The Twist
- Tea for Two
- River
To listen to the new album as well as stay updated on upcoming tour dates and releases, visit RADO’s website or follow them on social media.
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Artist Spotlight
Heliara unveils a symphony of courage in vulnerability with her new single “Cloak of Fear”
Heliara sings with a commanding and compassionate tone in her new single, “Cloak of Fear.” This stirring pop-rock anthem dives headfirst into the shadows of their anxieties and low self-esteem while extending a hand toward hope and promoting self-discovery. The Ottawa-based singer-songwriter draws upon her extensive musical odyssey to craft this unapologetically candid yet emotive track, effectively merging vulnerability with a powerful message of hope. The song’s lyrics invite a journey of emotional release, encouraging them to trade their “cloak of fear” for something brighter.
Musically, “Cloak of Fear” exemplifies a masterclass, in contrast, with the piano and bold guitar working together to create a fascinating interplay of light and shadow. The juxtaposition of its darker lyrical themes with an uplifting melody is striking, creating a unique sonic landscape that mirrors the journey from struggle to resilience. Heliara’s voice soars as the song builds, conveying strength and tenderness, a reminder that authenticity has power even in our most vulnerable moments.
What sets this track apart is its sincerity. Each word feels like it’s been pulled from the pages of her diary, making “Cloak of Fear” an intimate portrayal of struggle and affirmation of transformation. It’s a celebration of the process of overcoming adversity. Heliara’s willingness to embrace the power and vulnerability within herself inspires others to do the same, pushing audiences to banish negativity, discard their insecurities, and step into their most authentic selves. “Cloak of Fear” emerges as an empowering melodic narrative imbued with an indomitable sense of optimism; it’s a reminder that regardless of the obstacles encountered, we possess the inherent strength to rise.
“Cloak of Fear” by Heliara demonstrates that vulnerability can be a source of superpowers. This track is a must-listen for anyone seeking to embrace their courage and rewrite their story.
CLICK HERE TO STREAM Heliara’s “Cloak of Fear“ on Spotify.
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Artist Spotlight
“Wishing on a Star” by Claire Littley evokes a soulful odyssey of timeless classic dreams and optimism
Breathing new life into its familiar melody, Claire Littley’s reimagining of “Wishing on a Star” transcends its origins, transforming a timeless classic into an intimate, deeply personal narrative. Written initially by Billie Rae Calvin and recording popularized by Rose Royce, this song has always been a beacon of hope and dreams. However, Littley’s version delves into uncharted emotional territory, offering a vulnerable and soulful spin that feels like a heartfelt whisper to the universe.
Claire’s vocal performance stands out the most when she starts singing. Her delivery has a distinct emotive softness, a deliberate fragility that underscores the yearning at the song’s heart. Every word feels imbued with intention as if she’s not just singing about wishes but living them, shaping an atmosphere of intimacy that draws you in and holds you close.
Her production choices are equally thoughtful. Stripping the track to its emotional core, Littley creates a chilled, soulful arrangement that complements her vocals without overshadowing them. Delicate layers of instrumentation glide effortlessly, balancing nostalgia with innovation.
This version is unique because Claire connects with the song’s personal yet universal themes of hope, longing, and love in a way that resonates with generations. Her interpretation taps into these emotions, making it feel as relevant today as it did when the song was first released. It reminds listeners that the idea of “Wishing on a Star” is a metaphor we all share, a quiet act of defiance against life’s challenges.
“Wishing on a Star” by Claire Littley is more than a cover single; it’s a reinvention that will linger in the minds of listeners long after the final note fades, inviting everyone on a soul-stirring journey to dream and hope a little bigger. It’s proof that even the most familiar stars can shine in new and beautiful ways.
For more information about Claire Littley, please visit [website].
CLICK HERE TO STREAM Claire Littley’s “Wishing on a Star“ on Spotify.
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