I dont watch much primetime television. So when songs by The Submarines popped up in episodes of Nip/Tuck, Greys Anatomy and Gossip Girl they went unnoticed by my ears. It took an iPhone commercial and borrowed Weeds DVD to get my first listen to this Los Angeles band.
Although I dont actively seek out husband-and-wife fronted bands when one does happen upon my ears (Arcade Fire, Mates of State) I usually find myself putting them in regular rotation in my car or, yes, iPod. The Submarines were no different.
Fresh off playing Slims in San Francisco for Noise Pop, Saturday night at the Troubadour was the end of a month long tour that started in San Diego and took the band on a journey from sea to shining sea. And judging by singer Blake Hazards in between song dialogues they were glad to be back. Los Angeles was glad to have them back as well and showed it with a sold out show.
Describing the bands music is like describing a really good cupcake; light and whimsical delivered in a small package. Hazard splits vocal duties with her husband and lead guitarist John Dragonetti. Both were solo artists before meeting in the Boston music scene and the pairing of their musical talents resulted in harmonious jams to dance to. Hazards xylophone work just adds to the charm of the band.
Along with You, Me and the Bourgeoisie the band performed Xavia which was featured in Nick and Norahs Infinite Playlist much to the crowds delight. The Submarines arent anything new musically to the Los Angeles scene but chemistry that Hazard and Dragonetti share on stage makes for a downright fun show.
