I’ve been a huge fan of Lake Street Dive since fall of 2011 when I first heard them perform at The Festy outside of Charlottesville, VA. When I learned that lead singer of Lake Street Dive, Rachael Price, had a side project with Brooklyn-based singer-songwriter, composer, and guitarist, Vilray, I knew this was something I had to check out. As soon as I listened to their debut album that was released via Nonesuch Records in October, I fell in love with their cozy sound. I was excited to see them live at DC’s beautiful historic synagogue, Sixth & I, last Thursday evening. The two came together to create witty, warm, jazzy, 1930s and 40s pop/swing-feeling tunes.

Rachael and Vilray both have smooth, swoon-worthy, and captivating voices that work perfectly together in their debut album, Rachael & Vilray. Ten of the twelve songs on the album are originals written by Vilray, and two cover tracks, Nosotros, written in 1934 by Pedro Junco Jr., and Peggy Lee and Milton Drake’s, I love the Way You’re Breaking my Heart. Lake Street Dive band member, Akie Bermiss, who opened for Rachael & Vilray with a few of his original songs at Sixth & I last Thursday, is featured on their debut album as the pianist. The album is perfect for hosting those holiday dinner parties! Check out, “Do Friends Fall in Love,” by Rachael & Vilray here to see what I mean.