by Mollie Thorsen
Photo by Melissa Madison Fuller
The Apache Relay is far from the average Nashville band. So much so that when recording their new self-titled album, the band traveled outside of Music City to do so. Apache Relay, which has a noticeably different sound and feel from their first album, American Nomad, was produced at Fairfax Recordings in LA.
Fairfax, formerly known as the infamous Sound City recording studio, was studio home to legendary acts such as Neil Young and Elvis Costello. Occupying the same recording space that was preceded by these legends played a large part in the sound of the new album. Kellen Wenrich (fiddle, keys) says “the album was a subconscious reaction to the studio that has such historic value behind it.” Naturally, when recording in a space with a long list of legends who inspired you, you feel the need to create the most authentic album you can. Wenrich went on to say that was very much the case when recording at Fairfax, and any fan who owns both of these albums can tell that this indeed was their state of mind.
While both albums are incredibly written, their newest (released in April of this year), really showcases the band’s evolutionary process as growing musicians. The lyrics are a little more powerful, the melodies a little more conscious, and overall the band sounds completely authentic. This seems to be a constant theme when talking with Wenrich, who says that the band is growing, evolving and becoming a band to be reckoned with. Although competition is not what The Apache Relay is about.
When asked what to expect from their shows this tour, Wenrich states that the crowd will experience brilliant performances by not just The Apache Relay but also their tour mates, the Wild Feathers and Desert Noises. “Everybody is bringing it,” he says, because this tour has been so inspiring and encouraging to all of the artists. The comradery between the bands has only had positive effects, making the next band on deck feel the need to follow with an equally soul-tugging set.
It is clear to see that the Apache Relay’s evolution as artists positively impact their studio time and live shows, but Wenrich says that the “personal connection” with fans is still what they value most. Highlights of the band’s career, such as playing Bonnaroo and opening up for Mumford and Sons at the legendary Ryman Auditorium, were extraordinary, according to Wenrich. However, he also says it’s the nights where they just connect on a whole different level with the fans that he looks forward to most.
Apache Relay is giving Philly audiences the chance to experience this connection when they play the World Café Live tonight with Desert Noises and The Wild Feathers. They’ll be in DC on the 20th and continuing their tour until New Year’s Eve when they perform back home in Nashville. After a short rest, the band hits the road again in February for winter tour dates. Check out all of their upcoming events at www.theapacherelay.com.
