Hardcoretet

This summer I have discovered two Seattle bands that I like and that I think have some hope of going beyond flash-in-the-pan status. I first saw each of them at the Triple Door Musicquarium, which may seem kind of square (maybe, I don't know).

The Raggedy Anns describe themselves as being influenced by "Django Reinhardt, Dr Seuss, Kinks, The Ventures, Julie Andrews, Libertines, Acid rain, and Buddy Holly." Although that may seem pretentious and hyperbolic, it isn't; the band lives up to its influences. Buy their new album and go see one of their shows now if you want in on the "I was into them when..." party.

The Hardcoretet is a jazz quartet that plays fusion-influenced grooves and, aside from their original compositions, can bang out a very respectable cover of Hancock's "Sly". They are well matched in terms of musicianship; all are expert at their instruments and young for it. If you have $10 I beseech you to pre-order their album. It is good to support real local talent when it comes along.