SXSW Recommended – Princeton

Photo by Laura Heffington

My first entry into this SXSW blogging extravaganza is a California band on the 2010 SXSW roster called Princeton. When I first listened to the beginning bars of their song “Calypso,” my first thought was, “ok, here’s another Vampire Weekend soundalike.” But as the Kivel brothers’ deep vocals drifted over the uplifting twang of Princeton’s backing instrumentals, I was pleasantly surprised. Princeton incorporates several individualist details in an oracularly pleasing way, which, rather than sounding chaotic, works.

In addition, I might be biased because I truly am a sucker for string instrumentals, but the playful combination of string instruments and electric sound juxtaposed against the Kivels’ deep vocals really make this band stand out from its indie fellows. Princeton pays attention to detail – amen to that! I’m glad to see a little more texture from an indie rock band and so, based on my first couple of times listening, I will absolutely be checking Princeton out at SXSW.

Watch Princeton’s video for “The Waves” below: