Wedged somewhere between the classic horror films and a wall covered in obscure movie posters, The Paddle Boat filled South Park's Citizen Video last Saturday night with danceable tunes and happy hearts. The free all-ages show was a sweet addition to the South Park Walkabout. As the hippest folks in San Diego strolled the streets and enjoyed the local businesses' offerings, The Paddle Boat wooed their crowd with beautiful music from their recently released self-titled seven-inch EP.
Jeremy (vocals and guitar), Jackson (vocals and bass), Jane (vocals and clarinet) and Dave (drums) aren't members of your typical local indie band. Originally started as a side project for a few members of the San Diego band, Vision of a Dying World, The Paddle Boat has recently begun to get noticed for their unique sound. What makes The Paddle Boat a notable band amidst a prolific local music scene is their use of olde tyme melodies, smooth 1930s jazz inspired vocals, and catchy clarinet trills.
"We've been calling it chamber pop," Jackson said. A lot of people and press sources say it has a depression era vibe, '30s kinda crooner jazz influence. To me it sounds like a little weirder modernized version of something like the early great jazz singers and Elvis' early stuff."
Although they do have a charmingly nostalgic vibe to them, simply comparing The Paddle Boat to their musical predecessors wouldn't give their original sound due credit. The Paddle Boat draws inspiration from a wide array of great musicians, and it is evident when listening to their music. Tom Waits, Elvis Costello and Of Montreal are among a few of their influences, as well as a little folk and country.
The Paddle Boat have been working hard the last couple of months shooting a music video, releasing their EP and recording their first full-length album, but it looks as though they have nothing but smooth sailing ahead. Keep a look out this summer for local shows and the release of their new album. Visit myspace.com/thepaddleboat to hear their music and find out about upcoming tour dates. You definitely don't want to miss the boat on this one.
