Khruangbin: A Texas Trio That’s Out of This World
Occasionally I will find myself a little late to the game behind the hype of a well deserved band or artist and I am practically kicking myself for not digging deeper into Khruangbin earlier. Similar to many others, I was first introduced to Khruangbin through their collaboration with Leon Bridges on their 2020 EP, Texas Sun. I have been a Leon Bridges fan since day one so I was really pleased with their collaboration and found the songs to be really enjoyable. However, upon my initial listen to their work with Leon Bridges, I never took it a step further to look into their other music until just a few months ago and bbbboooyyyy am I glad I didn’t wait any longer!
Based out of the Lone Star State, this Houston, Texas trio was first formed when Mark Speer (guitarist of Khruangbin) and Donald “DJ” Johnson (drummer of Khruangbin) met by playing together in a church gospel band, where DJ Johnson was actually playing the organ. In 2007 they met Laura Lee (bassist of Khruangbin) through mutual friends and shared musical interests. Lee began learning bass and eventually auditioned for the role as the bassist for Yppah, where her and Speer would tour together. After touring with Yppah, the two decided to form their own band which would complete the trio we know as Khruangbin.
Once the trio was formed, the band really started to work on crafting their global influences where they would eventually perfect their psychedelic rock sound, with a large emphasis on the bass. Because Lee was learning Thai at the time, they came up with their band name, Khruangbin, because it was her favorite Thai word, meaning “airplane”. Members of the band have joked about how if they could have predicted their success, they would have chosen an easier name to pronounce, but ultimately it has been a lovely symbol of the variety of international influences that have lead to the band’s success.
Obviously with a band consisting of various influences, there isn’t just one genre that can describe their sound, but if I had to try and describe it, I would consider them a mix of soul, psychedelic rock, and funk. I once saw a comment on a music video of theirs that said “this band sounds like what I think floating around inside a lava lamp would feel like” and I haven’t found a more accurate description since. Although their music does lean more towards being just an instrumental band, there are occasional moments where they will throw in a bit of vocals to help spice up the song. What is even more impressive about this trio is just how excellent each of the members are at their craft. Johnson and his ability to keep time is like no other. I could list very few drummers that are as crisp as he is. Speer is an amazing guitar player whose guitar playing really ties in the mellow feel this band gives off. And Lee’s skill on the bass is so pleasing and helps add so much flavor to their sound. Plus, I’m a total sucker for a great bassline.
Something that will take a band from good to great in my book is how well they perform during a live show. Although I have not had the chance to experience them live yet, I have watched enough videos to get a feel for their performance style. While performing in black wigs, both Lee and Speer choose to alter their appearances in order to give them just a tad bit of anonymity. This also helps Lee craft an onstage persona she refers to as “Leezy” and is known for doing multiple outfit changes each show. Inspired by Elton John, she has claimed she hasn’t worn the same outfit twice during any of their performances. Aside from performance attire, the band’s performances always give off the feeling of just a group of friends jamming out together and sharing their love for music. This performance vibe pairs well with their easy going sound which would make attending their live shows a full on groovy experience.
This trio is such a delight to dig into and their music can elevate any activity. From driving during sunset, cooking dinner with your spouse, or having a cocktail by the pool, Khruangbin will make that experience much more enjoyable. I could ramble on all day about how great this band and their sound is, but I encourage you to give their NPR Tiny Desk Concert video below a play so you can get an idea of what you have been missing out on. As a native Texan, this trio makes me proud of all the wonderful musical influences and talent that we have in this state.
