“The Graduating Class sound like what would happen if Childish Gambino and Daryl Hall went on a three week bender that ended in Quincy Jones’ studio. The indie R&B group formed in June of 2018, initially as the duo of multi-instrumentalist John Queant and drummer Nate Hansen. The band quickly grew into a five piece: the lineup currently consists of Natty Burmeister on vocals and keys, Keenan Dorn on guitar, and August King, also on keys.
Stylistically, the Graduating Class is rooted in the blend of digital and analog instruments. Their songwriting process begins with just a keyboard and drum machine, but a finished song typically boasts layers of guitar, percussion and vocals. The band’s tracks show off a
variety of influences, ranging from Latin-inspired R&B to gospel-tinged indie pop.Following a summer and fall of shows, the Graduating Class holed up in a Portland studio to begin work on their debut record.
‘That’s What Tonight’s For’ is the band’s first single, an upbeat piece of sonic candy about falling in love with the wrong person. Production of the single was handled by Grammy nominee Mark Needham, whose credits include the 1975, Walk the Moon and The Killers. 2019 will see the band continue to release more music, and embark on an increasingly ambitious show schedule.”
Jam out to the Eugene band’s first single below!
