It’s only a couple of weeks from our next show at Kenyon Hall, and you don’t want to miss this one!
We’re doing a new kind of hybrid event starting out with vinyl Play ‘n’ Tell at 6:30. We’ll have an experienced DJ on hand with some progressive and experimental LPs, and attendees are encouraged to bring their own favorite albums to share a track along with a few words about why it’s special.
Then at 7:30, we’ll start with live music. First up is The Army of Experimental Children, a project of James DeJoie of Moraine and 20 or so other bands. The Army centers on his vocal music and features a seasoned ensemble of some of Seattle’s best players bringing to life songs that wander between art rock, space rock, electronic experimentation, and more.
Next up we have the Seattle debut of Portland’s Earthbound for a set of dark and intense instrumental progressive rock. Brian Heaney’s compositions are full of twists, turns, and the sounds of vintage keyboards.
Finally, we have Plash, a band that brings together math-rock and catchy vocal melodies into songs that are both complex and accessible.
On Saturday, 19 September, we return to Kenyon Hall for another Seaprog Presents show. This one features some familiar faces in new settings, as well as a second chance for Plash, who were to play a show for us but unfortunately had to cancel. It’s also an Off the Record event, so the evening will start at 6:30 with Vinyl Play ‘n’ Tell, where attendees are invited to bring in a favorite LP, play a track, and share why they think it’s worthy of attention. Tune Audio will be on hand to act as host.
Guitarist Brian Heaney was a figure on the Seattle music scene for quite a while, with bands such as Stinkhorn, Sunship, and others. Now he’s relocated to Portland, Oregon, and put together Earthbound, which leans much more to the progressive rock sound than some of his previous jazz efforts. They mine the dark, murky waters frequented by King Crimson.
Jim DeJoie has appeared on Seaprog stages more than almost any other individual musician, having played with Moraine, Zhongyu, Zubatto Syndicate, Reaven Trio, and Rik Wright’s Fundamental Forces, among others. The Army of Experimental Children is a project centered around his vocal music, and features Alicia DeJoie (violin, vocals), Ruth Davidson (cello), Greg Campbell (drums), Dave Pascal (bass), and Jon Davis (electronics).
Also on the bill is Plash, Seattle’s math-pop ensemble that blends complex meters with catchy melodies. Luca Cartner, who played drums in Kathy Moore’s Superpower at Cascadence, is joined by Jeseul Oh, James Lee, and FD Riverhill.
Hearty thanks to all of the remarkable musicians and open-eared attendees who made Seaprog’s first event at Kenyon Hall a smashing success!
Fian started things off with an intense set featuring just keyboard, drums, and vocals, but the energy was high, and the crowd was held rapt by the group’s compelling and creative songwriting.
Rik Wright’s Fundamental Forces on stage at Kenyon Hall 27 June 2026
Switching gears somewhat, we had Rik Wright’s Fundamental Forces, who floored the capacity audience with their set of electric jazz. The tasty grooves were topped by outstanding solo work from all four musicians. The music on their newest release, Fool’s Fate, was brought to life in an outstanding way, proving that getting out to see musicians play live is the best way to experience music.
Immensity Crumb on stage at Kenyon Hall 27 June 2026
And then we had Immensity Crumb (with string quartet and additional musicians and dancers, no less), who celebrated small things in a grandiose way. Their music may be mostly acoustic, but there’s electricity in their playing, and the arrangements for string quartet and oboe enhanced their sound in a beautiful way. Between the projected visuals, the costumes, and the dancers who joined them, it was an experience to remember.
Kenyon proved an ideal setting for Seaprog’s signature blend of multi-genre adventurous music. A special shout to Kenyon steward Murphy Janssen for welcoming us and most ably wearing many chapeaus.
Kenyon’s convivial atmosphere harks back to Seaprog’s storied run at Columbia City Theater; gladly, we have more events coming up there, starting with Dennis’ “Golden Jubilee” celebration on Saturday 7/11 and another bill in planning for 9/19.
Join us on July 11 for a really special night of music celebrating one of Seaprog’s founders, Dennis Rea. He’s been active on the Seattle music scene for 50 years, and he’s throwing a party to mark the milestone.
These days, Dennis has three main musical projects that will perform at Kenyon Hall, which means the audience gets a wonderful show of varied music while Dennis gets no rest.
Advance tickets are on sale for this all-ages event, and you can find more details on the event page.
