Thao & The Get Down Stay Down (formed in 2003) is an American folk-rock influenced alternative rock band who have collaborated with the likes of Andrew Bird and Joanna Newsom, hailing from Fall Church, Virginia, U.S.
Originally formed by vocalist and guitarist Thao Nguyen, drummer Willis Thompson, bass and keyboard player Adam Thompson, and lead guitarist Frank Steward, Thao & The Get Down Stay Down was born in 2003. Prior to the formation, Thao studied for a degree in Sociology and Women’s Studies, Willis Thompson performed with the groups Camp Tigerclaw and Acousticore, Adam Thompson was a solo jazz act known as The OK Bird, and Stewart was a member of the bands Durian and Verbal.
Thao & The Get Down Stay Down’s debut album “Like the Linen” was recorded and released in 2005, produced entirely by guitarist Frank Stewart. Despite not playing live together before, the band embarked on their label Kill Rock Stars’ “Sound the Hare Heard" tour in mid-2006, before sending the album to indie-darling, Laura Veirs. The record later landed in the hands of Grammy-nominated producer Tucker Martine, known for his work with Sufjan Stevens and R.E.M., who offered to produce the band’s subsequent album.
Released in January 2008, Thao & The Get Down Stay Down’s sophomore album, “We Brave Bee Sting And All”, earned rave reviews from the critical press. Following the release the band moved to San Francisco, California, and supported Xiu Xiu and Rilo Kiley, before embarking on a headlining U.S. tour. Thao & The Get Down Stay Down’s third studio album “Know Better Learn Faster”, released in October 2009, features folk singer Andrew Bird on the title track and was supported by touring alongside The Portland Cello Project. After singing with Ribbon Music in October 2012, the band issued their fourth studio album “We the Common” in 2013.
Kalia Vandever
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