Song of the Day: Petite League - French New York

Every Monday through Friday, we deliver a different song as part our Song of the Day podcast subscription. This podcast features exclusive KEXP in-studio performances, unreleased songs, and recordings from independent artists that our DJs think you should hear. Today’s song, featured on the Afternoon Show with Kevin Cole, is "French New York" by Petite League from their new LP, No Hitter, self-released on Scarier Dome.

Petite League - French New York (MP3)

If Lorenzo Gillis Cook and Henry Schoonmaker have proved anything in their first year in the public eye as Syracuse garage rock duo Petite League, it's that they have no fear. In the face of a rock scene obsessed with globalization and mass impact upon conception, they are busy taking back their local scene in brilliant ways, one of which is turning their basement into a legit venue (the aforementioned Scarier Dome). And furthermore, while thriving on local fuel, they are perfecting their songwriting with every pass. Last year's debut, Slugger, showed off a band unafraid to rock big ego in a petite pond. But with No Hitter, the duo continue the baseball analogies with a stronger, more well-rounded full-length statement. Listening to it straight through, it isn't hard to imagine why No Hitter is getting the attention of major publications and making waves far outside of the Syracuse scene. It's the type of record that puts a band on the map, and that's exactly what Petite League seem bound for.

"French New York" is a fantastic introduction to this record. Where early single "Zookeeper" is more of a hook-driven driver, "French New York" shows off why Petite League should be hailed for both their pop ear and their songwriting potential. The topic is a familiar one with an international twist: feeling lost in translation in your home city (mostly familiar if your home city happens to be New York City). Cook moves through effortless wordplay between lush seven chords, while Schoonmaker pounds forward in perfect balance of youthful drive and hands off charm. this is the kind of track that introduces Petite League perfectly, showcasing so much of what sets them apart from the New York throng. Finding a place in the world for yourself is one thing, but this Syracuse duo are learning how to take their well-adjustment to new locales, giving new fans opportunity to relate and fall in love. "French New York" is primed for this kind of youthful infatuation. Grab it above and take the dive.

Check out the rest of No Hitter, the second LP from Petite League, out now on Scarier Dome. No dates outside New York for the moment, but check their Facebook page for any upcoming plans to tour. For now, get to know Petite League better through this mini-doc of the duo and their Scarier Dome collective by Yours Truly: