When Cadre Noir singer-guitarist Kayin sat down for an interview with WXPN’s Thomas Hagen last year, they led off by stating that the band’s genre is “a bit of a mystery.” The Philly five-piece has leanings towards R&B, soul, hip-hop, and indie rock. It’s eclectic, vibrant, and thought-provoking as well. Writing about the band’s debut project Life’s Still Perfect, Hagen said “In his deadpan baritone, Kayin carries us lyrically through beauty, depression, fear and betrayal on Philly streets.”
The end product is gritty and gorgeous, a mix of lo-fi DIY fuzz and sublime soul melodies; think of Steve Lacey and Nick Hakim as kindred spirits of Cadre Noir. Hearing them play live in WXPN studios for this week’s Key Session, the music takes on a new life. Joined by co-founder Jaz on bass and vocals, Jonill on keys, Reece on guitar, and Ruben Gallego II on drums, the stylized atmosphere of the album is stripped away, but the songcraft stands strong.
Watch Cadre Noir play three highlights from Life’s Still Perfect and check out a photo gallery from their Key Studio Session below. For more, read the band’s interview with WXPN from last year, listen to the project on streaming services, and follow them on Instagram at @cadre_noir_ to keep in the know about upcoming appearances; their spring schedule is set to feature anything from basement shows to dates at legendary Philly club Silk City.