Song Spotlight: The Natural Supernatural's Dreamland (a night at Harvard & Stone)

The Natural Supernatural, fronted by Sean Fortier, closed out a Swyndle Monday night showcase at Harvard & Stone. I first came across the band in 2021 at a WFNM showcase night at Bar Lubitsch. I've got to say that was a good night of music as the line-up included Beck Pete, Carli Storms, and Young Rising Sons. I did a Q&A with the band at the time that is tucked way back in 2021 on my Instagram account. Here's a small snippet:

The Natural Supernatural at Harvard & Stone

Q. How would you describe your music? A. Describing our music has been such a fun puzzle to solve- when asked in passing I usually respond with: jazzy, funky, soulful, psychedelic rock. But there's so much more wrapped up in there . . .  At the end of the day I always want there to be a synthesis between The Natural (or technique and theory) and the Supernatural (pure whimsy and creativity).  If we accurately hit on those two elements then whatever message or emotion we're conveying usually hits like we want it to (regardless of the bent genres).

Q. And if there's a Q&A you've always wanted to or love to answer (or just something that is unique about the band) . . . . . A.  I'm also hoping to really cement ourselves in the scene - by just being a good band full of good people.  I think that's how communities form and prosper.  We're lucky to already have so many extremely talented friends and supporters who also happen to be great people, and if we make sure to keep playing with passion and energy that cohort will only grow.  

The Natural Supernatural at Harvard & Stone

Fortier has cemented himself in the Los Angeles music community. In fact, I recognized a number of familiar faces in the crowd. 

The band went all out for the night. Take the "jazzy" part of the above Q&A, because it was a big band 7 piece up on stage. Considering how small the stage is at Harvard & Stone, it was a tight squeeze. Though maybe dancing was limited on stage, it wasn't out on the floor. Songs such as "Rorschach Shapes" had people dancing without being asked. "Fountain Eyes" had a dreamy mysterious beginning before expanding into a psychedelic jam. Talk about jamming, for their final song "Zenohobia," Fortier stepped off stage, allowing for some serious drumming to take center stage. 

Comment of the set: This is love, man.

The Natural Supernatural at Harvard & Stone

The song spotlight goes to "Dreamland." It was mentioned to listen to the harmony between backing singer Paige and Fortier. A big band song that is driven by harmony vocals and brass that is a dance party ready to happen. It is almost like a tribute song to fellow DIYers Harry Katz and the Pistachios - and Harry Katz just so happened to walk into the bar during their set. 

The Natural Supernatural at Harvard & Stone

A song about being 17 -- making mistakes, having a positive view of the future, and having a sense of wonder. 

There's a world outside where everything can see that you're alive.

Setlist: Neon Smoke, Waiting, Butterflies in Asbury Park, Dreamland, Rorschach Shapes, Fountain Eyes, Zenohobia.