Kings Kaleidoscope

Seattle based Kings Kaleidoscope uses an eclectic range of modern, woodwind, string and brass instruments for a colorful, stylistic harmony that stands greater than the sum of its parts. The combination of electronic and analogue soundscapes is a love letter to Motown and math rock, with illustrative lyricism that runs the gamut of haunting, uplifting, and resolved. Singer/songwriter Chad Gardner carries these lyrics with a soulful treatment that compliments calculated drum work to create a balance between groove and mathematics. Tracks are peppered with electronics and sampling that call to The Bridge Wars era of hip hop, all the while bringing a refreshing stamina that breathes life into these timeless constructs. KK’s trademark voice is their ever-growing accent across their 5 EP’s, critically acclaimed LP, “Becoming Who We Are” and daring sophomore LP "Beyond Control." From humble beginnings they've triumphed over many trials and personal tragedies, mainly stemming from lead singer Chad Gardner's personal life. Garnering attention since 2010, this collective is known for their musical and lyrical call for cosmic reflection.

Background

Led by producer/singer/songwriter Chad Gardner, the group formed in 2010 at Mars Hill Church plant on the campus of the University of Washington, where Gardner was a worship leader. Looking for a big, orchestral indie pop sound, he assembled a ten-piece group, handpicking players and developing their lush sound. Sporting a variety of influences from math rock and hip-hop to the dense sound of Canadian indie outfit Broken Social Scene, Kings Kaleidoscope recorded their first live EP, Sin, at a Good Friday service in 2011. A year later, they released the studio EP, Asaph's Arrows, and shortly following a Christmas EP, Joy Has Dawned. In late 2013, Gardner and the band announced they were leaving Mars Hill where they had served as worship leaders and artists on the church's label. Their fourth EP, 2014's Live in Color, was released by BadChristian Music, a label formed by Seattle post-hardcore band Emery (band). Working with BadChristian Music and well-established indie label Tooth & Nail Records, Kings Kaleidoscope finally issued their debut LP, Becoming Who We Are, on October 27, 2014. Before Chad Gardner wrote the songs for the album, Becoming Who We Are, his son died. The song Zion, commemorates his son's death. Their sophomore concept album Beyond Control released June 24, 2016, and has been the bands most commercially successful release to-date.

Current members

• Chad Gardner - vocals, guitar, keyboards, production
• Andrew Nyte - drums, vocals
• Zack Walkingstick - bass, vocals
• Zawadi Morrow - keyboards, flute, violin, vocals
• Blake Strickland - trombone, vocals
• Jared Buck - guitar, vocals

Discography

References