On February 18, New Jersey’s Rigbi will release the Visionary EP. Says singer/guitarist Jon Irizarry of the record, “Patience was a big theme in the writing process. After releasing the first album, we were very anxious to get something new down and get it out to everyone. As the songs began forming we realized that if we wanted to do this the right way, we would have to slow down and take our time.” We asked Irizarry and bandmates Randy Sabo, Brian Cornish and Pat Maloney to make us a mix tape. Check it out below.
Rilo Kiley “American Wife”
Irizarry: Jenny Lewis has always been a personal hero of mine when it comes to songwriting. Her lyrics bleed sincerity, and she pours her heart out into every song. “American Wife,” which was originally a b-side from the band’s More Adventurous album, is a perfect example of her and the band’s ability to capture and express mood. Their songs just take you there. The recording of this song blows me away with the different parts that appear and disappear. From taunting children to a faint whistle, the instruments take you on an emotional trip. It is the essence of subtlety, beautifully executed. I think I would go so far as to say that they are my favorite band. To me, Jenny Lewis is this generation’s Bob Dylan. Video
White Rabbits “Heavy Metal“
Irizarry: Don’t let the title of this song fool you. White Rabbits are not a metal band. I accidentally got into this group during my tenure of working at my school’s radio station. I was immediately drawn in by their raw energy. They have a knack for coming up with simple, yet quirky melodies amped up by their two drummers. “Heavy Metal” has one hell of a groove to it. I challenge anyone to listen to this song and not bob their head! Video
Steely Dan “Only A Fool Would Say That“
Sabo: I really could have picked anything from Steely Dan and would have been happy with my choice. This duo is the pinnacle of perfectionism to me, representing years of toiling around with the same song until everything is just right. You only want people to hear the best that you can offer because you can never go back to change it after it’s out. “Only A Fool Would Say That” speaks to me for it’s sweet simplicity. Video
Ratatat “Wildcat“
Sabo: Another duo who have inspired me in a few ways. Their choice to play vocal-less groovy electronica beats is one of the boldest things I’ve heard. Occasionally, instrumental bands can be on the boring side, but not with Ratatat. Every song of theirs represents pure creativity and hooks around every corner. I chose “Wildcat” because it shows how far timbre and mood can go. Video
Dave Matthews Band “The Stone“
Cornish: The Dave Matthews Band has always been one of my favorite groups. I find their music to be very inspiring and thought-provoking, with the intricacies of the music and lyrics. The band obviously draws influence from jazz music. Although it may take some time to “warm-up” to the Dave Matthews Band, the more you listen, the more hooked you will become to their music. “The Stone” is an amazing composition and worth taking a listen or two. Video
Ellie Goulding “Figure 8“
Cornish: I have recently been hooked on Ellie Goulding and all of her music. Her range and vocal ability blows my mind. She has such a unique way of singing, something I’ve never heard before. Ellie’s music is a combination of pop and hip-hop music with an indie twist. I find myself watching her live performance at Troubadour, Los Angeles, 2012 on YouTube over and over again because her music is so catchy. This live version of “Figure 8” is taken from that concert. It is definitely worth listening to that entire concert! Video
Caveman “A Country’s King Of Dreams“
Maloney: I came across Caveman in early 2012. Their sound is a mix of tribal beats and mesmerizing melodies unlike anything I’ve heard before. I chose the song “A Country’s King Of Dreams” because it is simple and charming in nature. Caveman craft their songs very well, and they challenge me to think in different ways during my own internal songwriting process. This band is a necessity for any playlist; whether you’re on a long road trip or enjoying a nice Sunday afternoon respite on your front porch, stoop or lawn. Video
The Virgins “Prima Materia“
Maloney: I had the chance to see the Virgins live in early 2013. They’ve since disbanded, but their song “Prima Materia” will make you want to dance. They have a clever sound–similar to that of a synergy of Dire Straits and the Talking Heads. Their upbeat mentality has a large effect on how I play. Video
