Lake Street Dive has captivated audiences with their unique blend of soul, folk, jazz, and pop, establishing themselves as a unifying force in the modern music scene. Their eclectic sound is driven by the distinct talents and collaborative spirit of its five members. As they release their latest album, Good Together, it’s the perfect time to delve deeper into the individuals who make up this remarkable band and explore how their collective energy fuels their creative output.
The Core Five: Musical Architects of Lake Street Dive
The heart of Lake Street Dive consists of five incredibly talented musicians, each bringing a unique flavor to their signature sound:
Rachael Price: The Commanding Voice
Rachael Price is the unmistakable voice of Lake Street Dive. Her powerful and versatile vocals effortlessly navigate the band’s diverse musical landscape, from soulful ballads to upbeat pop anthems. Price’s stage presence is equally captivating, drawing audiences in with her emotive delivery and dynamic energy. Her vocal expertise is a cornerstone of the band’s identity, providing a consistent thread through their genre-bending explorations.
Bridget Kearney: The Rhythmic Backbone
Bridget Kearney lays down the groove as the bassist and background vocalist for Lake Street Dive. Her inventive basslines are both melodic and rhythmic, providing a solid foundation for the band’s intricate arrangements. Beyond her instrumental prowess, Kearney is also a key songwriter for the group, contributing to their lyrical depth and narrative storytelling. Her rhythmic experience is crucial to the band’s cohesive and danceable sound.
Mike Calabrese: The Percussion Powerhouse
Mike Calabrese is the drummer and background vocalist, driving Lake Street Dive’s infectious rhythms with his dynamic and nuanced drumming. Calabrese’s drumming style is both energetic and precise, seamlessly shifting between genres and tempos. He is also a significant creative force within the band, contributing to songwriting and fostering their collaborative approach. His percussive expertise shapes the band’s energetic and engaging live performances.
Akie Bermiss: The Keyboard Maestro and Vocal Harmony
Akie Bermiss adds layers of texture and harmony as the keyboardist and vocalist for Lake Street Dive. His soulful keyboard playing brings elements of jazz and R&B to the band’s sound, enriching their sonic palette. Bermiss’s vocal harmonies blend seamlessly with Price and Kearney, creating the band’s signature vocal richness. His keyboard and vocal expertise are essential to the band’s sophisticated and layered sound.
James Cornelison: The Guitar Virtuoso
James Cornelison, the newest member, brings his guitar expertise to Lake Street Dive, adding another dimension to their already rich sound. His guitar work ranges from subtle textures to driving riffs, complementing the band’s diverse musical styles. Cornelison’s integration into the band has further expanded their sonic possibilities, showcasing his versatility and musicality. His guitar expertise enhances the band’s dynamic range and instrumental depth.
Collaborative Chemistry: The Secret to Lake Street Dive’s Success
What truly sets Lake Street Dive apart is not just the individual talent of its members, but their remarkable collaborative chemistry. As they embarked on creating Good Together, this collaborative spirit was amplified. In an innovative songwriting process, the band gathered at Mike Calabrese’s home studio and utilized a 20-sided die to introduce elements of chance and spontaneity into their songwriting. This unconventional method, born from a playful approach, pushed them to explore new musical territories.
This unique approach to songwriting, where each member’s input is valued and integrated, reflects the band’s ethos of “joyful rebellion.” They channel their observations of a world often marked by division and negativity into music that promotes connection and upliftment. Good Together is a testament to this philosophy, embodying a spirit of defiance against negativity and a celebration of shared joy.
“Good Together”: A Reflection of Shared Values
The album Good Together is not just a collection of songs; it’s a statement about the band’s shared values and their desire to foster connection through music. The title track itself, a duet between Bermiss and Price, exemplifies this theme of finding common ground and building something positive together. Songs like “Dance with a Stranger,” inspired by a square dance Kearney attended, further highlight their commitment to creating music that bridges divides and encourages unity.
Even in songs that delve into personal experiences, like Price’s “Walking Uphill” or Calabrese’s “Seats at the Bar,” the underlying theme of human connection and shared experience resonates. Lake Street Dive’s music consistently explores the intricacies of human relationships and the importance of finding joy and connection amidst challenges.
Enduring Friendship: The Foundation of Lake Street Dive
Ultimately, the longevity and success of Lake Street Dive can be attributed to the strong foundation of friendship and mutual respect among its members. Despite their diverse musical tastes, they have cultivated an environment where each member’s voice is heard and valued. This deep-seated camaraderie is palpable in their music and performances, creating a genuine and infectious energy that resonates with audiences worldwide. Lake Street Dive stands as a testament to the power of collaboration, musical talent, and the enduring strength of friendship in creating truly exceptional music.
