Meet the Band: Billy Webb (keyboards, samplers, bass, and vocals) and Shannon Klauer (vocals).
Christmas Present: Webb and Klauer formed Wild Orphans last September and played their first gig the day after Christmas. Webb writes all of the duo's tunes, having honed his skills in local bands like Safari over the years.
Virgin Territory: All of Webb's past projects were guitar-centric. This is the first time he's played electronic music. And this is Klauer's first singing gig.
Made to Order: The band's debut album Games People Play was released earlier this year. Webb and Klauer create custom copies of the album for each show. "There is something cathartic and kinda cool about making your own handmade albums," says Webb.
Why You Should Hear Them: The seven tracks on Games People Play are built on a drum machine and plenty of vintage synth tones. The effervescent "Get It Going" channels New Order, and "Minnesota Mynx" is one of the catchiest songs about drinking you'll hear all year. In addition to playing out this summer, Wild Orphans are working on new songs, "which should have more upbeat dance tempos and a heavier emphasis on Shannon's voice," says Webb.
Where You Can Hear Them: wildorphans.com.
Where You Can See Them: At the Happy Dog on July 7. — Jeremy Willets
