I’ve always said that the extensive Metroparks system is one of the best things about Cleveland, and now – along with never-ending bike trails, families of deer, and more pavilions than you can count – we can add the birthplace of one of Cleveland’s catchiest up-and-coming local bands to the list. The Lighthouse and the Whaler are a collection of strapping Cleveland lads who met in the park one day to “jam” and ended up falling in love with the music they could make.
I was introduced to the heartwarming folk stylings of TLATW this Friday when they were featured at the Beachland Ballroom thanks to Scene Magazine, and was immediately blown away. The similarity to Bon Iver and all the other stringed folkies out there was imminent, but there was a creative energy and love for performing on stage that reminded me a lot of one of my favorite NC groups, Lost in the Trees (The use of bells and cello could also be to blame). Although I know many music fans are getting sick of the folk re-revival, I think anyone can decide pretty early on into their debut, self-titled record that The Lighthouse and the Whaler are on to something.
I have a feeling we won’t be enjoying a locals-only-fan experience for much longer on these guys, they’ve been featured on Filter and soon an upcoming Under the Radar compilation. Check them out around town, soon!
MP3: The Lighthouse and the Whaler – “White Days”
MP3: The Lighthouse and the Whaler – “Of The Heavens And The Earth”
[...] folkies and WMC Fest performers the Lighthouse and the Whaler will perform an intimate set. If you don’t remember them, be sure to check out their site and the mp3 below – think Fleet Foxes and Bon Iver and other [...]