The Key Studio Sessions: Marian Hill

One of our favorite new artists to emerge from the Philly scene in the past year, Marian Hill is a groove-based electronic group that spans the worlds of jazz, pop and downtempo dance. You’ll hear mellow beats, smoky vocals and alluring arrangements in their Key Session, alongside undeniable hints of similar artists from the late 90s / early 00s – Portishead, Sneaker Pimps and maybe a touch of Kylie Minogue on “Play” – though the core duo of Samantha Gongol (vocals) and Jeremy Lloyd (production) are probably more inspired by London Grammar and Baths than they are by Everything But the Girl. Their debut EP, Play, came out earlier this month, and they performed it live for us, but the best thing about the session: their live sound is hardly a note-for-note copy of their studio recordings. Check out the dramatic lead-ins that take us to “Breathe Into Me” and “Whiskey,” or the clever cut-up intro on “One Time.” Check out also the bouncing saxophone by live member Steve Davit on “Lovit.” Since Marian Hill does make electronic music, they could simply start the tracks rolling and leave the performance at that, but their live energy is infectious – they dance, they move, they bop around and get into their music even when their only audience is those of us in the control room. Download their Key Session below and keep your eyes peeled for more on the band’s Facebook page.