St. Lucia might one of my favorite new bands of 2012! Their tropical 80's dance vibe is so fresh and cool, yet is does not have that overly happy feeling that I can't stand. They have managed to have an edge that's sexy and fun without getting dark.
I was fortunate enough to catch St. Lucia in Los Angeles this summer @ The Echo - not sure how much longer we will be able to see them in venues of this size....seeing as how they were on tour with Two Door Cinema Club, and early next year they will be heading out with Ellie Goulding.
On this night at The Fox Theater, I really thought St. Lucia should have been the main support band. Earlier in the day I spoke with Two Door Cinema Club, and asked them what musician or band were inspiring them at the moment, and their answer was St. Lucia. Seeing these two bands back to back would have made the night, but I can't complain too much because St. Lucia's set was amazing! They played all their songs from their self titled EP that was released earlier this year, and honestly I cannot pick a favorite.....but "All Eyes On You" sticks out for sure!
I met with frontman Jean-Philip Grobler where we talked about St. Lucia's evolution, touring, the record, upcoming plans, all the normal things - but what really struck me was how grateful he comes off, very charming without being pretentious, calm and funny with a constant smile. He was so wonderfully detached from the "scene" and talked about 80's pop bands and writing jingles, and you always know when he likes something because his eyes and smile doubled in size - and being easy on the eyes is always a bonus. I usually don't like to do interviews because I am industry - not a journalist - but I am glad we had a chance to talk one on one....it pretty much made my day.
St. Lucia will be included on many of my top 10 lists for 2012, and not listening to their EP would be a huge mistake! Stream it above and then pick it up on iTunes HERE! You can also see them on tour - if you are in the bay they will be playing the Wintersalt Festival December 29.
