Dispatch from Around the Globe – Summer Quarantine Edition
Secret American is a bi-coastal band from the U.S. blending indie soul with classic and contemporary pop-rock stylings. With vocals rich in moxie, a groovin’ rhythm section and sunny, twangy guitars, Secret American brings a fresh perspective to a time tested sound. The band’s lead vocalist and principal songwriter, Derek Krzywicki crafted many songs at home in Carpinteria, Ca. after his departure from the band Cheers Elephant, and eventually sought out the help of old friend and producer/engineer, Todd Mecaughey from Philadelphia, PA.
What’s your favorite song that reminds you of summer?
There are too many. I can’t single out a favorite of any genre or mood.
We are always looking for new film and television to check out. What’s your favorite thing you’ve watched over the past few months?
I’m late to a lot of new tv shows and films but the last movie I saw and fell in love with was Jo Jo Rabitt. That may be one of my favorite movies now.
Your vacation plans probably got thwarted due to the global pandemic. Where had you hoped to travel to this summer? Where are you planning to do some fun, summer things this year instead?
I was supposed to do a China tour with my previous band Cheers Elephant. That was a real let down. Otherwise, I was lucky to escape in a camper van for a weeks in the Wyoming, Montana, Utah area.
Can you recommend a local, Black owned business that we should check out?
I know you mean well by the question but the practice of making only a perfunctory or symbolic effort to do a particular thing from underrepresented groups in order to give the appearance of racial equality is the definition of Tokenism. As a white person, it is my duty to have the uncomfortable conversations with my peers about HOW we are racist and not the comfortable ones about how we are not.
What’s your favorite shore town?
I suppose I would choose Cape Henlopen and Dewey Delaware. I grew up camping by the beach there and still love it.
Lots of people have been releasing music over quarantine. What’s your favorite release that came out since March?
I love everything my buddy Dante Elephante releases and I was stoked to hear his new jam “Jeni” come out the other week.
What’s your favorite summertime tradition?
Amongst the many I would say Camping holds true. Either with friends by the lake or ocean or just a backcountry hike.
What’s your favorite summertime treat?
Growing up it was Rita’s Mango Water Ice. Nowadays my sweet tooth has all but disappeared. I really enjoy grilling anything in summer. My friends and I used to do clambakes and that may still be my favorite summer treat.
You’ve probably sharpened your cooking skills since quarantine began. What’s your favorite thing to make for a meal these days?
I recently created one of the best fish tacos ever! I do either Mahi Mahi or a pan seared ahi tuna (raw center) on a corn tortilla, slow roasted poblano pepper, onions, sriracha, and homemade wasabi coleslaw. Yum!
Best summer concert you ever saw? What’s your favorite venue to see a summer concert in?
I saw David Bryne at my favorite summer venue at The Santa Barbara Bowl. I don’t think I have ever been moved so much from a concert than that. I had tears in my eyes and a smile bigger than the Delaware river.
Favorite Philly bands right now?
It’s unfair to highlight some over others. Philly music scene is too good!
Favorite non-Philly bands right now?
Too many again. Some favorite bands that released music this year would be: Fruit Bats, Dante Elephante, and Cut Worms just to name a few.
Favorite Summer Blockbuster(s)? Did you see it in the theater?
I have not seen a movie in theaters in 3 or 4 years. Again, that Jo Jo Rabbit was life changing.
Current summer reading? All time favorite summer read?
I’ve been reading the FAA Pilot Handbook of Aeronautical Knowledge.
What’s your favorite summer jawn?
Shirtless Bike Rides blasting a boombox of good tunes.
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