During an intimate performance at Red Bull Studios in Santa Monica, CA, Best Coast’s Bethany Cosentino told KCRW Music Director Jason Bentley that she wasn’t happy with their second studio album, “The Only Place“.
“Bummed” was the actual word she used.
She attributed this sensibility to a sophomore slump, the come-down from the epic heights they reached after their debut album saw so much success — and then not having time to explore new avenues in between touring and label obligations.
It’s a common conundrum for artists who find themselves in the same place. What do we do next? Where do we go from here? How can we keep it up?
For their third release, “California Nights“, Best Coast made the entire album without the initial support of a label. This allowed them to make songs without imposed limitations and really craft each one with it’s own identity.
The resulting record came out of the gates dripping with swagger and confidence, which peaked the interest of Harvest Records who signed on to distribute the album.
“Bummed” has turned into “pumped,” which if you’re California’s quintessential beach band, is really the only way to live.
Hear the live session on Morning Becomes Eclectic on May 14!
Best Coast Live on KCRW – Set List
FEELING OK
CALIFORNIA NIGHTS
HEAVEN SENT
THE ONLY PLACE
IN MY EYES
NO ONE LIKE YOU
FINE WITHOUT YOU
SO UNAWARE
FADING FAST
DREAMING MY LIFE AWAY (inspired by the mermaids in Peter Pan)
I DON’T KNOW HOW
JEALOUSY
WHEN WILL I CHANGE
GOODBYE
BOYFRIEND
**All photos by Jeremiah Garcia
