If you met Inara George and Greg Kurstin of the Bird and the Bee on the playground, they would easily be the coolest kids on the block. Their music is cheeky, fun and seemingly full of inside jokes you can’t help but want to be in on. However, listen at your own risk! You’ll soon find yourself clapping and swaying along to their infectious electro synthpop sound.
This musical duo came together during the production of George’s solo project and bonded over their mutual love of Jazz standards. While their music has taken on a distinct character of its own, this influence is still apparent in their live performance as classics often get a Bird and the Bee makeover. Kurstin’s experience as a producer and keyboardist for artists such as Lily Allen, Beck and the Flaming Lips combines seamlessly with George’s distinct voice to create a unique partnership likened to that of Stan Getz and Astrud Gilberto.
The music of the Bird and the Bee is whimsical and bright, dripping with Pop appeal while maintaining a playfully witty air. George’s vocals are as smooth as glass, enabling the lyrics to glide over Kurstin’s polished production. The two mix up an organ, xylophone, tambourines, claps, snaps and harmonies that at times seem like a modern spin on doo-wop to create their clever blend of cool electro-pop.
Do you think a duo such as the Bird and the Bee can be easily relegated as a novelty?
If you like: Lily Allen, Imogen Heap
Check out: The Bird and the Bee (start with “I Hate Camera” of their self-titled album, progress with “Come As You Were” of the One Too Many Hearts ep and graduate to “Polite Dance Song” and the rest of their music)
Feeling brave: She & Him, Sia, Jesca Hoop, Tilly and the WallAI level: Beginner