A Pit Stop With Kelpbeds Cont…
Kelpbeds are a band originating from San Diego, California- using mixes of garage rock, jazz, and synth wave to create an ethereal blend of Funk Rock. (Honorable mention to them trying to classify themselves in the genre of 1700’s sea shanties as well). Born from the dreams of guitarist Jack and lead singer Peter, they both recalled finding a love for music together and eventually beginning to create their own music. Starting in early 2020, going through many name changes and adding members throughout the years, Kelpbeds finally feels complete with bassist Megan Beasley- also on alto saxophone, synth player Luke Johnson, drummer Wiki Alva, guitarist Jack Andolina, and lead vocalist Peter Semenza- also on guitar.
After only having had one practice together before going into the Covid lockdown, the members started to feel a little stuck in the isolation cycle of work. Using music as an outlet, Kelpbeds continued to create songs, leading to their first EP ‘The Groves by the Graves’. Recorded on a laptop in a living room, this EP has five songs including ‘The Groves by the Grave’, ‘Spider Webs’, ‘The Curse’, ‘Reasons’, and ‘Wonder’. Though this wasn’t the first release, (their first being ‘Wonder’, originally released as a single on March 27th of 2021, later being added onto the EP) it certainly put them on the radar of a lot of music fans, expanding beyond the scope of San Diego.
With two completed EP’s out on Spotify, Kelpbeds shows no sign of slowing down, recently recording a new album on March 31st, 2023. At Amplified Studios in Carlsbad, the band played 8 songs for a live audience. This album consists of some favorites and a couple of new tunes to go on your radar, such as “Give It Away” and “Let’s Go”. Release is set for next year, so keep your ears open for updates and make sure to mark your calendars!
Still screaming for new Kelpbeds music before 2024? Well hold your breath and get ready to belt- Kelpbeds recorded a new album in San Diego on July 23, 2023 with 8 tracks, including some of their newest songs from the live album. With plans to release before the end of the current 2023 year, and this being the first full album with all 5 members make sure to keep your eyes glued to their Instagram and Spotify!
We’re also lucky enough to have gotten an inside scoop on the recording process behind their latest EP “Kelp Lounge’. The members went all out, renting an AirBnB in Joshua Tree for a couple days to spend time together while they recorded their next 6 songs to be released. As Kelpbeds have been accumulating fans and buzz all over Southern California, this EP was released into welcoming if not screaming arms and hearts across the board. With fan favorites such as ‘Years and Years’ and ‘Apocalyptic Love’ Kelpbeds have become a local show goers favorite band, and a name you’ll see regularly on flyers around the coast!
Written by: Mykah Worthington (@inside.reds.head)
Published: 08/04/2023
Enjoyed this interview? Wait till you’ve read the special edition Kelpbeds article we did, giving more in depth introductions to the band, in our magazine. Find the closest issue near you!