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Artist Name: Kibi James

Who Are They: Lo-fi indie rock four-piece from Atlanta.

Members
Ariana Abebe – Drums
Miranda Corless – Bass, Vocals
María González – Guitar, Vocals
Yvette González – Guitar, Vocals

Sounds Like: With roots in Mexico, Venezuela, and Ethiopia, there is a world music element within the band’s songwriting that’s tangible if a bit blurry to pin down. Some of that may have to do with the group’s varying skill levels (two of the members picked up their instruments for the first time earlier this year) which has forced the foursome to be more creative and experimental in their approach. Overall, the two tracks Kibi James have offered so far feel jazzy and breezy, albeit with enough wiry guitars and lo-fi hums and crackles to keep the atmosphere from floating into the ether.

Releases: The band’s two-song demo, Demo James, was released in September via Bandcamp. A debut album is scheduled for next summer.

Mandatory Listening: The lead track from Demo James places you in the center of Kibi James’ unique aesthetic. Opening with a summery, laid-back groove, “Cada Día” transitions into a kind of Latin slacker jam blended with what I can only describe as tropical ambience. There’s a classic indie rock familiarity to what the band does here—jangly rhythms, muted yet melodic vocals—but the way the members piece together these elements is never quite you expect. That feeling of surprise and wonder, that willingness to explore hidden nooks and shrouded corners, may be the most gratifying part of listening to the group’s fledgling effort, and I can only hope the band expands on it as they continue to develop and evolve.

Kibi James will perform on Fri., Dec. 7 at the EARL and Sat., Dec. 8 at the Drunken Unicorn. The EARL lineup also features Doe Paoro and Sara Rachele. Doors open at 9 p.m. Admission is $12 in advance or $15 at the door. 21+ to enter. At the Drunken Unicorn, the group will play alongside Eyedress and Elevator Chat. Doors open at 9 p.m. Admission is $12 in advance or $15 at the door. All ages.

More Info
Bandcamp: kibijames.bandcamp.com
Facebook: @kibijamesband
Instagram: @kibijames