I’ve mentioned The Golden Republic a few times in previous posts, so I thought it was about time I introduced you to their music.

The Golden Republic originally began as The People in 1999.  Started by cousins Ben Grimes (who has now formed Soft Reeds) and Ryan Shank, The People were an art-rock group that drew on glam-rock influences like Bowie and T-Rex.

Eventually, the group would solidify it’s lineup when Kenn Jankowski (who has now formed The Republic Tigers) joined as lead guitarist/keyboardist and Harry Anderson joined as bassist.  The group would then relocate to Kansas City, get picked up by Astralwerks Records, and change their name to The Golden Republic.

They would soon record their first EP, aptly titled “People”, which was produced by Oran Thornton (who you will meet in an upcoming blog).  Soon after they would record their self-titled album with Peter Katis (Interpol, The National, Spoon).

Unfortunately, they would disband around 2006.

I was always impressed with The Golden Republic because they write music that I know I could never recreate.  It has always seemed like “smart” music to me.   Some of their ideas would come out of left field, reminding me of the glam-rock era, but maintaining a modern setting.

These musical themes continue to mature in The Republic Tigers, and Soft Reeds music.  I can’t casually listen to any of the music Kenn or Ben writes.  I always have to listen to their creations as a songwriter, and find myself wondering how they come to their musical conclusions.

Check out “You Almost Had It” by The Golden Republic