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

Shawn Brown raises the volume on love, loss, and survival in “What a Way to Go”

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