April 2005

PART 1: Ten quick minutes catching up with Loquat

The DIY ethic of building albums and recordings broke it wide open for bands. It allowed bands to create their own music on their own terms and refine their sound without outside pressures defining: who, what, where and when. Loquat has always embraced this core value, from early inception as a trip-pop recording project of Kylee Swenson and Earl Otsuka to the full-blown band featuring Kylee on vocals and guitar, Earl on guitar, bassist Anthony Gordon, drummer Christopher Lautz and Ryan Manley on keyboards. Loquat continues to refine their sound in each recording and polish (to a bright luster) their newest release, It's Yours to Keep.

Taking a breather between storms is where Loquat is right now. Their new record has been released in Spain and is currently getting airplay and fantastic reviews in Europe. It's a bit strange for Loquat not to be able to see that develop, but it's given them loads of confidence about how they're going to be received later this month when the album is released in America. It's also given them the opportunity to go to Europe and tour in support of the album. With passports at the ready, they are currently focusing on playing their CD release party at Cafe Du Nord on 4/23. The band seems relaxed and levelheaded focusing on the goals immediately in front of them. They've grown-up from just being a local band playing hard earned shows to seeing themselves on the edge of breaking out. It's written on their faces, it's that giddy nervousness just before graduation and it's a great place to be.

Loquat will be at Cafe Du Nord (2170 Market Street, San Francisco) 4/23, with Citizens Here and Aboard, the Herms, and DJ Aaron Axelson. All ages. $10

-Ben Acevedo