Let's Send Tea Lounge's Josh Ricchio to Latvia!

Photo via Austin NelsonYou may know Josh Ricchio as the cute guy behind the Tea Lounge counter who wears the orange t-shirt and talks about his adorably rambunctious puppy. Well, he's ALSO the lead singer and guitarist in a band called Freak Owls.

Each song, indeed catchier than the last, is textured with over-layering vocal choruses, sparkling acoustics, and Gnarls Barkley-like danceable beats. All at once pulling influences from The Beach Boys, Iron & Wine, Bon Iver, Local Natives and Death Cab For Cutie, “Taxidermy’s” songs make you want to curl up to them and sing along at the same time. A very personal and uplifting half hour of smiles and moist eyes, Freak Owls wants to warm the heart and chill the spine.

I've seen them play a few times and, while I'm impressed with Josh's dreamy vocals, my heart STOPS at the sight of his violinist/percussionist/singer/angel, Cody Geil. I'm putting it out there, CG. I've got a CRUSH. 

Freak Owls has been invited to play at the Positivus Festival in Salacgriva, Latvia (we've all taken day trips here, yes?), but the fest is only springing for the cost of 1 band member, and they need additional funds to get the rest of the crew overseas. They've got a Kickstarter page up and as of this post have to raise $450 in the next seven days to meet their goal. Perks for donating include free downloads, a tote bag and HUGS! Who doesn't like a hug?

So if you're a fan of the band, or Josh's friendly counter banter at the coffee shop and want to toss a few shillings their way, please do! I'll leave you with a music vid for their song, "Little Things."