Music
Joe Kaplow
Three years ago, I was speaking to my buddy Ryan of The Heart House in Boston. Ryan has frequently been a friend, collaborator, and mentor on ideas and plans for EZDI Fest. I asked him how someone even starts hosting house shows. He explained his approach and made one very important recommendation: reach out to Joe Kaplow.
Returning for his third appearance at Easy Does It Fest, Joe is bringing his band and taking full control of Friday night's entire set. With his distinctive California indie rock sound, Joe brings a vibe that's relaxed but not lazy, carefree but not careless. His is the type of music I think fits the vibe of Camp Easy Does It so naturally, with tight studio songs that can bleed into sprawling jams when played live. It'll be the type of show you'll reminisce about when returning to his music throughout the year.
Some songs that are personal favorites include Little Sleep, 5am, and Sympathize With Killers. Joe will also be on the eve of releasing a new album, so we'll be among the first to hear some new singles of his.
ZG Smith
About a year ago, I heard Nighttime Animal. I was swept away at the beauty of the song, not even paying attention to the lyrics so much as being pulled into an ethereal breeze of imaginative delight by the guitar tones syncopated with an astonishing vocal performance. I listened to it again immediately after, this time paying closer attention to what was being said; it became an anthem for me. I had to find out who was responsible for this six minute meditation.
It turned out ZG Smith was responsible for that and so many other constructions of sonic beauty. I reached out on a whim to see if he was willing to come to rural Connecticut for Easy Does It. He was game. And those who were there on Friday night were treated to a solo show that was incredibly captivating. None of us could believe how lucky we were to bear witness to his talent.
This year he's coming back with his full band. I can't decide which I'm more excited about: getting to see him again or getting to watch everyone else have their faces melted by him. Go listen to Work That Magic, Use My Body, and Nighttime Animal to get an idea of what you're in for.
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Underground Springhouse
Streaming services can make it seem like finding new bands is impossible since it's like sorting through piles and piles of potential. How many of us simply revert back to what we know?
Luckily, I stumbled upon USH this year via one of their covers - a raucously engaging version of Amy Winehouse's Valerie - and never turned back. These guys, based in Athens, Georgia, bring back memories of when it seemed like every talented band on the radio was from that town. I have kept up with their performances for the past nine months via the Nugs app where they upload the soundboard recordings from every concert they play. In sum, I am always nodding my head. These guys can do it all - their original songs are fun and dance-worthy. Their covers are authentic reimaginations from their own spirits. I can't wait to see them live.
Go give their song, Joyfell, a listen and get ready to dance while eating dinner Saturday early evening.