After releasing their debut EP Take us By Sea last year, Tealights have been gaining fans throughout their Atlanta home. Residing in an already musically diverse city, Tealights add a great deal to their scene by crafting some of the most unique music in town. They come across as a mix of trip-hop, chamber pop, and classically infused electronica. Their recent headlining spot at The Earl showcased this sound perfectly and asserted that their music is best experienced live.

Tealights opened the show with a newer song entitled "Contemplation." The band began with a low, bass-heavy rumble, before drummer Brett Kelly set a deep groove that allowed singer and cellist Mary Knight to provide the melody and sparse vocals. Seamlessly, the band moved into songs "Exit," "Passport," and "Clouds" which were all from the EP. In particular, "Clouds," with its understated and introspective tone, was a highlight of the evening.

After "Clouds" and in the middle of the set, the band played "Recreational Knife Throwing." Without a doubt, this was the centerpiece of the night. With the tight staccato drums and quick tempo, the song created a sharp contrast to the first half of the show. The band rounded out the set with two more songs from Take us By Sea before debuting "Lemon Sandwich" to end the evening. Notably, there are many electronic-based bands in the city, but none quite like Tealights. Really, I cannot say that I have heard anything like them anywhere. See them live.

http://www.myspace.com/tealightstheband

Photographer: Vincent Tseng