Capital Cities is a Los Angeles-based indie-pop duo composed of Ryan Merchant and Sebu Simonian. The pair is responsible for creating some of the most infectious and memorable tunes of the past decade, including Safe and Sound and Kangaroo Court. Their sound is characterized by buoyant instrumentation, quirky lyrics, and undeniable hooks, and it has gained them a legion of dedicated fans. In this article, we'll take a deep dive into the musical journey of Capital Cities, from their humble beginnings to their chart-topping success.
Capital Cities' origins date back to 2008 when Merchant and Simonian met while working on commercial jingles in L.A. The two bonded over their shared love of music, and began collaborating on their own material. They released their debut self-titled EP in 2011, which featured the upbeat, horn-heavy Safe and Sound. The track became an instant hit, thanks in part to its catchy chorus and retro sound that drew inspiration from '70s disco and '80s new wave.
Capital Cities' debut album, In a Tidal Wave of Mystery, arrived in 2013, and it showcased their genre-spanning sound and keen pop sensibilities. The LP's standout tracks included Farrah Fawcett Hair, I Sold My Bed, But Not My Stereo, and Kangaroo Court, which featured a spoken-word breakdown that became a viral hit. The duo's irresistible dance beats and clever lyrics garnered critical acclaim and a loyal following.
In 2016, Capital Cities returned with their second album, Solarize. The record marked a departure from their debut's exuberant sound, with more subdued, introspective tracks. However, the album still retained the band's signature blend of synths, horns, and percussion, and it also featured a guest spot by legendary soul singer Leon Bridges on the track Guitar Song.
Capital Cities' music has been influenced by a diverse range of artists, from the Talking Heads and Daft Punk to the Beach Boys and Stevie Wonder. Their sound is characterized by its upbeat energy, clever lyrics, and bright instrumentation. Their songs are perfect for dancing, but they also offer a sense of depth and thoughtfulness that sets them apart from other pop acts.
Capital Cities' rise to fame is a testament to their talent and dedication to making music that is both fun and meaningful. Their unique blend of genres and infectious sound has brought them a devoted fan base, and they continue to release music that is both creative and catchy. Whether you're a long-time fan or just discovering their music, Capital Cities' journey is one that deserves attention and appreciation.
