Jukebox the Ghost

Say what you will about piano-pop; but there are few indie outfits that have mastered the art like D.C.’s Jukebox the Ghost. The trio of recent GW grads has drawn a considerable amount of national attention over the past year; largely attributable to their playful hooks, quirky lyrics (ranging from allusions to Charlie Brown to a detailed account of the apocalypse), and the lofty falsetto vocals and contagiously flamboyant stage presence of front man Ben Thornewill. The band’s sound is the product of diverse musical backgrounds: Ben is a classically-trained pianist, Tommy had a stint as a guitarist in a jam band, and Jesse used to drum for a punk band. The boys have been touring incessantly since the January release of their debut full-length, “Let Live and Let Ghosts.” They’ve been bombarded with rave reviews ever since, including flattering comparisons to Ben Folds and a toned-down version of Queen. Not bad company for budding rock stars.


Get to know Jukebox the Ghost:

What are your primary musical influences?
We're all into different stuff, so it's a bit difficult to answer.  We all come from very different backgrounds, but we always admire bands who can craft pop songs from a more innovative angle. And our influences range from hip-hop to indie to classical to jazz. We're a bit all over the place.

What’s the biggest show you’ve ever played?
Our sold-out album release at the Black Cat in January is definitely up there. That was beyond insane. We had no idea that many people were coming. It blew our minds.

What’s next for the band?
More touring!  We're on an almost-two-month tour with Say Hi (who are awesome), and plan to try and get into a studio and record our second album sometime soon.

What's one thing you'd like our readers to know about Jukebox the Ghost?
That we no longer tour in a minivan.  Ford E-150 Econoline Van from now on!  

What's your favorite venue/bar/restaurant in D.C.?
Best Jumbo Slice: Real Original Jumbo Slice.
Best bar: The Argonaut (H St. Corridor)
Favorite restaurant: Tortilla Coast (Capitol Hill)