After three years and a handful of EPs, Denver indie rockers are gaining momentum and finally releasing a full-length LP. Download the single “Blue Spruce” here.
In 2011, Denver’s indie rock outfit charged from the gates with a fully formed sound ready for commercial success. Three years later, the band charges on. It’s one of the mysteries of modern music: How is it that artists like Instant Empire — a band with an electric live show, a dynamic and well-produced rock sound, and songs that seem destined for popular appeal — can’t seem to get the exposure so much other crap does? Perhaps it’s a matter of having the right connections, or perhaps it’s just luck. All the band can do is keep producing great music and touring, persevering as they steadily if incrementally expand their audience. This is what Instant Empire has done for the last three years, and at least one person of influence has taken notice.
In November, Instant Empire announced that they are the first Colorado artists to be selected for the . The California-based non-profit founded by accomplished composer and producer selects a few artists a year to bring in to Tyng’s studio and record the band’s “best song.” Then, the Grow Music Project promotes the track in the industry, like showcasing the artists at CMJ and SXSW. This just might be the luck or connection that a persevering band needs. Maybe Tyng will select “Blue Spruce” as Instant Empire’s “best song.”
In 2014, Instant Empire will release its first full-length LP, following a handful of excellent EPs released through the years. Recently, the band gave fans a taste of what to expect on the album with the single “Blue Spruce,” available for download below. Then, on December 20, the band will be headlining at Hi-Dive. Check them out for yourself and maybe suggest what you think their best song is.
Please note that downloads offered via Steal This Track are intended to whet your appetite, and are NOT CD-quality recordings. If you want those, please support the artists by buying their music and/or seeing them live.
If you’re a band or musician ready to expose your fresh sounds to the readers of Reverb, email your tracks — along with any interesting facts about them, as well as a photo or album art — to Steal This Track for consideration.
Josh Johnson is a Denver freelance writer and Reverb contributor. He is also a co-host/co-producer of the Denver podcast . He’s also a journeyman butcher. Seriously.
