A good beat, a great tune, and a positive vibe is all I really need to enjoy a song. Throw in some robotics and electronic fantasy themes into the mix, and I’m all here for it. That’s why the “Robot Spark” (Rauch von König remix) by Nashville-based artist Lost American has been playing on repeat on my computer all weekend. Energetic, fun, but also fairly chill, the song — remixed by DJ Stash Konig — is a seriously great track.
Its melody reminds me of selected works from bands/artists like Gary Newman, Architecture in Helsinki, Duran Duran, and Human League. Plus, “Robot Spark” comes with a music video, and mini documentary that was directed by the artist’s friend David and shot in a Barcelona loft. It features a number of guest musicians, such as Alp on guitars, Delphine on keyboards and backup vocals, Simon on percussion, and Adolf on base.
"I’m calling it Southern Gothic electronic; a modern take on what triggers passions in the deep South,” states the artist. It’s kind of hard to explain what that means. Subjectively, when I think of Nashville, electro alternative music is not what comes to mind. What comes to mind is influences. The city is a melting pot of styles, ideas, and sounds; it’s one of the best places to learn about music and a goldmine of history and culture.
Culture is something Chris E. Kelley — the real name of the artist behind the killer track — has had a lot of exposure to. Lost American is a thoughtfully picked out alias, as Kelley has been living out of the US for almost twenty years. His wanderlust began after the 9/11 attack on New York City; the event made him want “to immerse himself in a life outside the United States, to try to understand the often divergent opinions of his home country.”
Back at home, the artist is focusing on live performances in the US. With a seriously awesome knack for arranging awesome tracks, I can’t wait to check out a live show. In the meantime, keep an eye on the Lost American social pages to keep up with the band!
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Note* Album provided for objective review by our partners.