DeVotchKa: BeatCrave Fav

DeVotchKa were, initially, a backing band for burlesque shows. Numerous nationwide tours in support of self released records earned the band an underground following. Their performance at the 2006 Bonnaroo music festival was considered their breakout event. In between tours, the band was picked by first time film directors Jonathan Dayton and Valerie Faris to score Little Miss Sunshine, which went on to garner four Academy Award nominations. Based in Denver, Colorado, the quartet is made up of Nick Urata, who sings and plays theremin, guitar, bouzouki, piano, and trumpet; Tom Hagerman, who plays violin, accordion, and piano; Jeanie Schroder, who sings and plays sousaphone and double bass; and Shawn King, who plays percussion and trumpet.

There music is an eclectic blend of various world folk influences (Romani, Greek, Slavic, Mariachi, and more), combined with American folk. It’s a moving array of ballads, overflowing with emotion. From the desperation of “The Enemy Guns,” to the heartfelt sorrow of “We’re Leaving,” DeVotchKa’s songs tend to dig into the heart. They’ve put some unique twists on their cover songs: “Venus in Furs” becomes a psychedelic, red light district anthem and “The Last Beat of My Heart” draws musical depth and runs away into the sunset. Its escapism at its most beautiful.

Be sure to visit heir myspace and lastfm pages to listen to some songs!

• Pick of the Day: DeVotchKa
• Type: Alternative/folk rock
• Band Members: Nick Urata (vocals, theremin, guitar, bouzouki, piano, and trumpet), Tom Hagerman (violin, accordion, piano), Jeanie Schroder (sousaphone, double bass), Shawn King (percussion, trumpet)
• Label: ANTI-
• Albums: SuperMelodrama, Triple X Tango, Una Volta, How It Ends, Curse Your Little Heart, and A Mad & Faithful Telling (buy them here)
• Videos:

Venus in Furs


The Enemy Guns


• Upcoming Dates:

May 23: Sasquatch! Music Festival Quincy, WA

June 5: Mann Center Philadelphia, PA

June 6: Filene Center Vienna, VA

June 20: Red Rocks Amphitheater Morrison, CO

June 26: Greek Theater Berkeley, CA

Check out other BeatCrave Favs!

REMEMBER! You can vote for your ultimate Fav on Fridays! Last week’s BeatCrave Favs were:

• Gogol Bordello
• Harlem Shakes
• The Pains of Being Pure Heart