Wakeful is an emerging American progressive rock band who made their professional recording debut in 2020 with the EP Timbodia. That record introduced a trio of musicians from Atlanta with virtuosic chops and an experimental and musically sophisticated sound. The band first got together seven years ago and cut their teeth in their hometown’s competitive music scene.
The band consists of Shane Keaney on guitar, Cameron Franchi on vocals and keys and Trent Schell on drums. With that tiny roster, they make a big sound. Citing similarly adventurous instrumentalists as Animals as Leaders, Hiatus Kaiyote, and Tigran Hamasyan, they spin a wild mix of syncopated rhythms, hypnotic multipart harmonies and complex chordal structures.
“Cliffsound” is the brand new single from Wakeful, released worldwide via all major streaming services on December 31, 2022. The track is their first release since their debut EP. The song opens on a beautiful and percussive bass harmonic intro before the beat drops on an ethereal art-rock dream.
The band covers a lot of ground in under four minutes. Through the course of the song we venture with them through jazz changes and prog-rock sci-fi moods. There are stylistic nods to everyone from Primus to Coheed and Cambria. There is even a taste of Manhattan Transfer in the bridge. However, the end result is an entirely unique and cerebral experience.
Check out the equally creative animated “Cliffsound” video below. You can also hear the song on the Deep Indie Dive playlist , or listen on your favorite streaming service. Follow the links below to connect with Wakeful.
