Song of the Day: Real Numbers - Falling Out

Every Monday through Friday, we deliver a different song as part of 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 Afternoon Show with Kevin Cole, is “Falling Out” by Real Numbers, from their 2016 album, Wordless Wonder, on Slumberland Records.Real Numbers - Falling Out (MP3)Nestled in both the frigidity of Minneapolis and in the warmth of Slumberland Records' roster, the floaty garage pop outfit Real Numbers knows how to jangle all the way through a song and album. All those snowy days and trapped indoors activities have made it conducive for the five piece to crank out some harmony-glazed, drum and bass-sugared encores. Decades of influences ranging from Roy Orbison-type galloping guitar, Clash-type rock, Television-type post-punk, and Smiths-type indie pop can be heard from the crew which they use to concoct their answer for feel good anthems.

With hypnotic, lead riffs from Ian Nygaard (Nice Purse, Howler), and moody vocals from Eli Hansen (Cozy, Boys Club), their lo-fi-forward vibes from their 2014 compilation album What Was & What Is positioned them for their punchy and brightly suntanned singles like "Falling Out" from their anticipated 2016 full-length Wordless Wonder. There's a twangy beach swing and western noodling that echoes throughout "Falling Out" as well as an emotive stoicism that captures the twenty-something-aged American spirit. There's a subcultured, bar rock aesthetic that Real Numbers has tapped into that's guaranteed them some significant staying power.

Real Numbers is lowing low so far for the beginning of this year, but there's definitely an up-and-coming band to check out and stay tuned via their Facebook page. For now, watch the newly released video below for "Frank Infatuation", another song from Wordless Wonder.