PREMIERE: Secret American bring us California sunshine in “Warmth & Shelter” video

Secret American, the new solo project of Cheers Elephant‘s Derek Krzywicki, is back with a delightful video for their second single “Warmth & Shelter,” and we’re excited to premiere it right here on The Key. The title track from the yet-to-be-announced debut album coming our way later this fall, “Warmth & Shelter” exudes the sunshine-filled California spirit with an unmistakable gritty Philadelphia edge that makes Secret American’s sound so unique.

Krzywicki once called Philly home, but now dwells among the cacti out on the West Coast. The video shows the native East Coaster wandering through the desert and the mountains — landscapes that are unmistakably Californian but still feel so foreign to us. According to Krzywicki, Secret American observes “California country landscapes from the seat of an overhead SEPTA train.” The singer, in his 70s garb complete with sunglasses and a fake mustache, may be a bit inherently out of place out there in the sunny countryside, trying to adopt those laid-back vibes, but it makes us want to hop right on a plane and join him in the comfort of the bright UV rays. Watch the video below.

Secret American have a few Philly dates this fall, including a Hurricane Harvey benefit show on Sept. 29 at Ulana’s with New Sound Brass Band and Korine. They’ll also be at Johnny Brenda’s on Nov. 25 with Satellite Hearts.

Stay tuned for more news about Secret American’s debut album, as well as a Key Presents video we recently shot with the band. If you missed their video for lead single “WHY BELIEVE?” — which features similarly sunny California vibes balanced with astute political commentary — watch it below.