The Lede has only been around the D.C. area since 2004, producing self recorded demos featured on their MySpace page and shifting through various rotations of band members. It may seem like these local alt-rockers are still working out the kinks and getting acclimated to the scene, but their mature and innovative sound tells a different story. You need a strong lead to hook the reader (or in this case, the listener), and that they did from the very moment front man Evan ran his fingers across the keys and leaned into the mic. Their work exhibits the class and cohesiveness of a band with many years of experience under their belt, even though they are in fact just getting started.

DCist braved the snow and ice last Sunday to catch their set in the perfect intimate setting for their style — under the flickering lights of Galaxy Hut. Jsyn’s drumming was tight and clean, providing a backbone and semblance of command to a sort of captivating ordered chaos. Each note came off as carefully orchestrated with interjected vocals mixing both gruff semi-spoken word and song. While this might sound jarring, it all stitched together neatly. There is also something very appealing about a keyboard or piano alongside the more typical combination of bass, guitar and drums.

It’s exciting to encounter a band in their early stages and know that you will be seeing great things from them in the next few years. The Lede are defining themselves as a unique entity in a realm where it can be difficult to stand out. Their intro is fresh and intriguing, let’s hope the rest of their story is just as compelling.