New York, NY (Top40 Charts) Indie folk band, Valley Shine, released their debut EP, LOCA, a selection of folk tunes that inspire dancing, singing and deep reflection on the changing tides of life. Packed with banjo hooks, acoustic licks and a collection of varying stories, LOCA is now available on iTunes and Spotify.
Jenna Blake and Sam Sobelman fused their respective love for the places they call home, LA and the OC, to form their EP title, LOCA. LOCA opens with the bouncy single, "Sugar Dream" a deceptively sweet pop tune with undeniable hooks that encompasses a message of heartbreak and the struggle to move on.
As Sam Sobelman chants, "doesn't matter what you do love, I'll still be in love with you," his voice resonates with earnest sincerity without a hint of bitterness, despite the fact that the object of his affection has fallen in love with someone else. A music video was released for the single in October and can be viewed on YouTube. While "Sugar Dream" has a sunny disposition that brings to mind acts like Edward Sharpe and the Magnetic Zeros, the rest of LOCA trails into a barrage of folk melodies more contemplative than celebratory. On the second track, "Don't Let It Slip Away," Valley Shine reveals a more subdued and soothing side as Jenna Blake leads the track with rich and soulful vocals of regret. "If I Was a Bird" is a beautiful gem, echoing both Joni Mitchell and Arcade Fire, as it pairs organic affectations with the wistful presence of Danny Severance's violin. The EP ends on a note of closure and finality, finishing with the rich orchestration of "To The Sea" that sails off with a breathtaking parting note. As the band proclaims the last line, "the tide is coming for us" the harmonies are as powerful as the ocean the song navigates through. Produced by Max Allyn at The Outpost Recording Studio, LOCA proves Valley Shine to be as embracing of a sweet pop ditty, as they are of an eclectically sophisticated approach to folk music, both of which are a rewarding experience.
With Jenna Blake hailing from Louisville, KY and Sam Sobelman from a sheep farm in Northern California, it seems only natural that Valley Shine would find a distinctly folk sound prevalent in their harmonies. Brought together by a shared love for whiskey, cats and bluegrass music, Sobelman and Blake have enjoyed a rewarding artistic friendship ever since forming Valley Shine. Meeting by chance through Instagram, the two quickly found a perfect match in their collaboration after playing a few sessions together. The duo solidified the lineup for Valley Shine, recruiting Troy Lawton on drums, Danny Severance on violin, Myke Wilken on guitar and cello, and Stewart James on bass.
Valley Shine is an ensemble of characters just as diverse as the patchwork of folk perfection they weave together. LOCA showcases the multitude of range this unique group is capable of. Having been together for just a year, the indie darlings have quickly made a name for themselves, winning over hearts and ears with their well-crafted folk pop and charming live performance. Download LOCA now on iTunes and for more on the sweet life of Valley Shine, visit valleyshineband.com!
