When former choir kids Autumn Vagle and Kate Malanaphy met at Hamline University singing harmonies years ago, they had very little idea what was in store for each other, and for what would eventually become their very own “prairie rock” style band, Keep For Cheap.
Inspired by their own queer love story for much of their early songwriting, but needing more hands to truly create the sound they were searching for, the Midwest duo eventually developed into a five person group, as they started jamming out with mutual friends in true college fashion.
In their latest single, “FedEx,” they cover what it means to struggle as an openly queer artist in today’s culture, as well as what it’s like to grow up in a harshly divided America, which can oftentimes be a hypocritical, scary place.
Known for their captivating live performances, it’s natural that much of the band’s time would be spent on tour. On the way to a festival in North Dakota, after getting stuck behind a FedEx truck in an incident during their travels, they decided to use their feelings about the situation to give life to their latest release.
Although the song certainly expresses fear and discomfort with existing in what can often feel like a hate-filled space, namely as a queer artist traversing rural America, it also expresses hope and wonder for the future, and a desire to seek experience and connection despite what may come with it.
The energy of the song itself harkens to a 90s alt pop-rock era, with its punchy electric guitars and mid-tempo sing-along groove. The harmonic overdubbed vocals elevate the track to create a big full sound, delivering a feeling of controlled angst.
The release of “FedEx” sets the tone for the band’s sophomore album, Big Grass, which is set to release in August of 2024. Having toured with acts like Beach Bunny, Remo Drive, and Boyish, fans can not only expect more music from the band, but also more live performances in the Midwest and hopefully beyond following this release.
