Free at Noon Flashback: Secret American brings Warmth and Shelter to World Cafe Live

Secret American | photo by Taylor Johnson for WXPN

There’s nothing like a noontime dance party to really wake you up. Philly native Derek Krzywicki is the eccentric frontman behind Secret American, a band with a self-described “East Coast heart” and “West Coast vibe,” and for today’s Free at Noon he came prepared with a six-piece backing band, quirky choreography, and plenty of upbeat energy to accompany his sunny pop songs.

Though he now lives in California, Krzywicki seemed more than eager to return to his Philadelphia roots this afternoon, and he’ll do so again tonight when Secret American plays Philly Music Fest, a hometown celebration of the city’s music scene. Today’s prelude to tonight’s main event gave the crowd a brief but spirited look into what the band has been up to since releasing their debut album, Warmth & Shelter, this spring.

The members of the Secret American band appeared to be having as great a time as the audience as they powered through their quick seven-song set, sometimes with intensely choreographed moves and sometimes with improvised dancing and laughter, all while filling each song with the jangly instrumentals that give them their retro, laid-back feel. The final product of Secret American’s performative style fulfills the vision of vocalist Krzywicki, who has clearly put a lot of thought and effort into making sure his live show is never lacking in entertainment value.

Lucky ticket-holders can get a second dose of Secret American when they play a sold-out Philly Music Fest tonight, Sept. 28 at World Cafe Live. Philly Music Fest continues Saturday and Sunday, with some tickets still remaining. Find more information on the XPN Concert Calendar.