The Key Studio Sessions: Busses

Photo by Jason Bachman

Every Sunday night, Y-Rock On XPN’s John Vettese brings a Philly band into the depths of the WXPN studios for an in-house interview and recording session. This week’s featured band, Busses, blends prog, punk, and psychedelic rock in formidable power-trio style. The band is also performing at The Key’s launch party at The Blockley on Saturday, September 25th.

Fueled by Indian takeout from Sabir’s just up the street, the members of Busses ripped through most of their 2010 self-titled debut during their recent visit to our studio. Singer Dave Brett showcased his intense Robert Plant-esque howl (cue up to 1:25 on the song “House Fire” for a taste); there’s also plenty of propulsive trumpet work by session guest Josh Anderson, and a tight rhythm section composed of Jason Bachman (bass, keys) and Nick Apice (drums). The combo was righteously loud, but smartly arranged—so they blew our minds without blowing out our eardrums. Which was very considerate of them, as we’re looking forward to having enough hearing left to enjoy their live performance at The Key’s launch party this weekend. —John Vettese