Nov 05, 2009

The Gainesville, Florida psych-jazz quartet known as Morningbell (yes, it’s a Radiohead reference) was formed in 2000 by brothers Travis Atria (vocals, guitar, lyricist) and Eric Atria (bass, theremin, backing vox). Eric’s wife, Stacie Thrushman (keys), joined the group in late 2001, while Chris Hillman (drums) was recruited in 2007 as the band’s sixth skin-hitter.

The group is preparing to release their fourth (and longest) record to date, Sincerely, Severely. African polyrhythm and Brazilian folk music were accentuated on the foursome’s new percussion-centric successor to 2007’s Through the Belly of the Sea. Above, we have an exclusive debut of the smoky, toe-tapping track, “Stay In the Garden.”

The preview cut shows the foursome’s jazzy side with some New Orleans tempos and an upright bass heartbeat. Tom Waits would be proud of Travis’ witty lyrics (“a sky as black as burnt toast”). A sultry tale of a mysterious man pleading someone to “stay in the Garden.” This apparent Eden might as well be a seedy lounge somewhere in the Ninth Circle of Hell though.

Morningbell will be touring the U.S. soon. Make sure to check out their “trademarked 100 Dollar Light Show.” The DIY lighting rig includes a foot-controlled strobe and spotlights. Be sure to check out this intriguing feature on their low budget setup. Sincerely, Severely is being self-released December 1^st.

Morningbell:

11-12 Gainesville, FL - Orange and Brew
11-13 Gainesville, FL - The Atlantic
11-20 Asheville, NC - Bobo Gallery
11-21 Durham, NC - The Pinhook
12-04 Gainesville, FL - Common Grounds
01-09 Gainesville, FL - The Atlantic