Song of the Day: James Apollo - Spinnin

Every Monday through Friday, we deliver a different song as part our Song of the Day podcast subscription. This podcast features exclusive KEXP in-studio performances, unreleased songs, and recordings from independent artists that our DJs think you should hear. Today’s song, featured on the Morning Show with John Richards, is “Spinnin” by James Apollo from the 2014 album Angelorum on Marterry.

James Apollo - Spinnin (MP3)

James Apollo may be Arkansas-born, but the bluesy singer and composer calls Seattle home. He's worked with local favorite Damien Jurado, and toured with indie-rock darlings Grizzly Bear and Lord Huron. Apollo released his latest album, Angelorum (latin for "angels") earlier this year. On the album, recorded at Flora Records in Portland, Oregon, Apollo's sound takes on a more gritty and unselfconscious feel than before.

With a voice like the "well oiled leather" it was inspired by according to his Facebook page, James Apollo belts out "Spinnin," the fourth track from Angelorum. "Spinnin" isn't complicated or overworked, but is peppered with influences from The Beatles to the Rolling Stones, all the way to Martin Denny. The track features a satisfying mix of intensity; plenty of crescendos and crashing percussion as well as smooth organ notes and soulful whispers from Apollo. The vigor of "Spinnin" leaves no room for the emotionless.

James Apollo will be playing at Capitol Hill Block Party today, July 25th, at 4:30pm! If you can't make it, check out his website and Twitter for more updates and live dates. Watch the video for "Spinnin" below, and take a peek at his performance of the track live on KEXP too!