Lake Street Dive band 2024 image

Lake Street Dive: A Hypothetical Masterclass in Harmonies and Soulful Delivery

 

 

When blending vocal harmonies with catchy, soulful grooves, few modern bands do it, and neither does Lake Street Dive. Their 2021 release “Hypotheticals” exemplifies their ability to mix jazzy undertones, pop sensibilities, and strong vocal performances. At the heart of this track is the exceptional vocal work of lead singer Rachael Price, whose voice effortlessly carries the song’s emotional weight while grounding it in melodic richness.

The Magic of “Hypotheticals”
From the opening notes, “Hypotheticals” hooks listeners with its irresistible combination of a bouncing bassline and a crisp, driving beat. But Rachael Price’s voice truly elevates the track to something special. The way she maneuvers through the verses, rising and falling with just the right amount of emotional tension, is a testament to her vocal skill. She has a rare ability to make each note feel both spontaneous and polished.

What sets “Hypotheticals” apart is the intricate use of harmonies that support Price’s lead. Each layer of the vocal arrangement is carefully constructed to enhance her performance without overshadowing it. The band’s backing vocals—crafted by the other members—bring a dynamic energy to the chorus, making the listener feel the push and pull of hypothetical situations that the lyrics explore.

Lyrical Exploration
The lyrics of “Hypotheticals” examine the “what ifs” in life, specifically in the context of a relationship. Price sings about the delicate balance between longing for potential futures and uncertainty about whether they will come to pass. Lines like “We could have been perfect / We could have been great” tap into that familiar feeling of wondering what might have been. Yet, there’s also a sense of acceptance woven throughout, as though the song acknowledges that not all hypotheticals need to become reality.

The strength of the lyrics lies in their universality—many of us have experienced moments of uncertainty in relationships, and the song captures that hesitation beautifully. The vocal delivery mirrors this emotional complexity, moving seamlessly from moments of hope to moments of doubt.

Rachael Price: A Vocal Force
While the song’s structure and lyrics provide a solid foundation, Price’s voice truly shines in “Hypotheticals.” Her ability to blend power and subtlety within a single song is remarkable. She demonstrates vocal control that allows her to hit impressive high notes without ever sounding strained, while her lower range adds warmth and depth. The tone of her voice is rich, filled with a soulful quality that sets her apart from many contemporary vocalists.

It’s this versatility that has made Price one of the best vocalists of her generation. Whether she’s singing a ballad, a pop anthem, or a jazz-inflected tune, she brings an authenticity that resonates deeply with listeners. “Hypotheticals” is a perfect example of how she can take a relatively simple lyrical concept and elevate it into something profound and resonant.

Conclusion
“Hypotheticals” is more than just a catchy tune—it’s a showcase of Lake Street Dive’s ability to fuse genres and craft memorable music. At its core is Rachael Price’s stunning vocal performance, which turns this hypothetical situation into a very real musical experience. Whether you’re a long-time fan or new to the band, this track is an excellent entry point into the magic of Lake Street Dive.

As the band continues to evolve, it remains committed to pushing the boundaries of its sound. With Price at the helm, the future looks as promising as the hypothetical possibilities its music explores.

 

calm light

aoyama, japan
Published on August 15, 2018
Nikon, D7500
Free to use under the Unsplash License

Lake Street Dive’s “Hypotheticals,” from the album ‘Obviously,’

Produced & Directed by Oskar Peacock
Director of Photography – Alex Munro
Gaffer – John Ward
Choreography – Hannah Jean Hildreth
Art Assistant – Brian Quintos
Stylist – Rachael Price
Hair & Make up – Leslie Espinosa
Assistant Props – Tariq Nelson & Jevin Gonzales
Editor – Oskar Peacock

BTS Photography – James Salzano

Televisions courtesy of Ace Props
Shot at Flüg Studios, Hell’s Kitchen NYC
—————–
Rachael Price: vocals
Mike “McDuck” Olson: guitar
Bridget Kearney: bass, background vocals
Mike Calabrese: drums, percussion, vocals, grunts
Akie Bermiss: keys, vocals, synthesize

Maintaining their genre-bending sound, “Hypotheticals” is a perfect blend of indie pop, jazz, and soul. It begins as a daydream, slowly sweeping you away with its sparkle. The groove trickles in through an arpeggiation of instruments, as lead singer Rachel Price croons her introduction. She sets the stage, “Obviously we’re at the beginning of something, I don’t expect you to know where it’s gonna go.” Initial shyness evaporates as Price decides “Maybe you should know.” Lake Street Dive wastes no time with flights of fancy, they lay it all out on the line.

Article:

Today’s Song: Bold and Bright, Lake Street Dive Kindle a Fire with “Hypotheticals”

Nasim Elyasi

Nasim is a San Francisco-based writer. She loves music, words, and being outside. You can find her and her cats watching "No Reservations"., Atwood Magazine

Lake Street Dive’s “Hypotheticals,” from the album ‘Obviously,’ out now on Nonesuch Records: https://lakestreetdive.lnk.to/obviously Video Directed + Produced by Alex Chaloff for Bucket’s Moving Company Recorded at Phantom Studios, Gallatin TN Produced by Mike Elizondo Rachael Price: vocals Mike “McDuck” Olson: guitar Bridget Kearney: bass, background vocals Mike Calabrese: drums, percussion, vocals, grunts Akie Bermiss: keys, vocals, synthesizer

Lake Street Band in wihite and Sepia outfits
Lake Street Band B&W

Rachael Price

Vocal Range: E♭3 – D6

LYRICS

Obviously, we’re at the beginning of something I don’t expect you to know where it’s gonna go But I believe we might be onto something I just thought maybe you should know I’ve been playing out a lot of hypotheticals in my mind I’ve been writing your name down next to mine Been imagining all the things you and I could do oo oo I’ve seen all the possibilities in my dreams You’re alone when you should really be next to me Baby, let’s not wait and see Immediate action isn’t necessary It’s a fatal attraction, it’s a little scary But I got a plan of attack and it’ll get us there someday soon, I know it I got a plan A and I got a plan B And if it’s absolutely necessary we’ll go to plan C Whatever I gotta do to be with you I’ve been playing out a lot of hypotheticals in my mind I’ve been imagining all the things you and I could do I’ve seen all the possibilities in my dreams You’re alone but you should really be next to me Baby, let’s not wait and see Nobody can see into the future Even the weatherman gets caught out in the rain sometimes But I see something in you that I’ve never seen before And I can’t be sure, no maybe not, but I think it’s worth a shot Hypothetically yes Theoretically forever We’ll see what happens but I hope we will never be apart.

 

Mar 15, 2021

Lake Street Dive performs “Hypotheticals” live for WFUV. Recorded 2/25/21.

Host: Paul Cavalconte
Director: Johnny Frohman
Camera Operators: Katie Sadler and Connor Smith
Gaffer: Eric Bowers
Audio Mixing: Robin MacMillan
Video Editing: Robert Edridge-Waks

Lake Street Dive band 2024 image

Good Together [Neon Yellow LP]

Good Together [Neon Yellow LP] Lake Street Dive  Format: Vinyl

Good Together [Neon Yellow LP] Lake Street Dive Format: Vinyl

Good Together [Neon Yellow LP]
Lake Street Dive Format: Vinyl
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