Did you know that Sean White plays in a band? Kidding, he doesn’t, but his doppleganger sure does. Chasing Shade, comprised of Iowa City natives Griffen Harris, Sean White’s identical twin. Elliot Beenks, and Tom Cigrand, has the incredible musical talent equivalent to Sean White’s epic snowboarding skills. Although we were only able to sit down to coffee with Griffen and Elliot and discuss Iowa City local music, plans for their future (of which there are many—they’re moving to Los Angeles in the not so distant future!), and the wonders of Kickstarter campaigns, the Locavaux Crew got the feeling that not only were these two some of the nicer fellows that we’ve met on the road thus far, but that they were simultaneously holding back on explaining just how brilliant their music really was. Two hours later, their full-length album, Pen to Paper, downloaded and playing on the bus speakers, we knew we were spot on. Filled with their signature indie-beach-blues sound, Chasing Shade’s blend of acoustic and electric guitar, drums, bass and vocals cover a lot of ground with only three musicians. A spot of Local Natives's alternative, a tad bit of Jack Johnson's easy-listening, and just a smidge of My Morning Jacket's rock are apparent in their recordings, but Chasing Shade emits a blend of laid-back vocals and jazz-blues that is uniquely their own. What’s more, they’ve since added a horn section to their line-up, so we can only imagine how wonderful a strong, brass sound might embolden their beach vibes. So take note and listen up on these guys’ current recordings before they make it big in Los Angeles. You wouldn’t want to be like one of those lame people who likes bands only after they get all popular and nationally renowned, would you? Learn more about Chasing Shade here!
Listen to their music here!