Song of the Day: Tristen - Glass Jar (feat. Jenny Lewis)

Every Monday through Friday, we deliver a different song as part of 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 “Glass Jar” by Tristen from the 2017 album Sneaker Waves on Pupsnake Records / Modern Outsider.

Tristen - Glass Jar (feat. Jenny Lewis) (MP3)

Once a member of Jenny Lewis's touring band, the tables have turned for Nashville-based artist Tristen Gaspadarek (who records as Tristen), with the former Rilo Kiley frontwoman now supporting her. On her third album Sneaker Waves, Gaspadarek defies classification, combining folk with synthpop into its own unique sound.

“I didn’t put any aesthetic parameters on this record,” she says, via a press release. “The only concept was to let each song decide what it was going to be. I figured out how to write a song and record it at my home studio, start to finish, in the moment of inspiration.” Today's Song of the Day is said to be about "people’s preconceived notions about one another," with Tristen echoing the lyrics "You put me in a glass jar / and tap, tap, tap to see how I move." Alongside her husband/collaborator Buddy Hughen, the two handled everything but the rhythm section and orchestral accompaniment from their home.

No Seattle shows on the itinerary yet, but if you live in Atlanta, GA, you can catch her two nights November 10th and 11th at Eddie's Attic. Until then, follow Tristen on Facebook, Twitter, and Instagram. And, check out a video for today's featured track, directed by Casey Pierce, below.