Kite Flying Robot

"The synth rock anthems of Kite Flying Robot may best be described as 'Darkpop', but the buoyant energy of the arrangements, the clever wordplay, and the romantic imagery, coupled with Thompson's clear tenor, leave one exhilarated - hopeful - joyous - and wanting more." -Mercury Photo - Mercury Photo

For an album that boasts 13 different instruments, eight vocalists and a bling-tastic title, I expected the Oklahoma City-based Kite Flying Robot’s debut to be a giddy, stuffed-to-the-hilt affair.

Surprisingly, it’s marked not by excess, but by tasteful arrangements that result in strong pop songs.

Anchored by mild-mannered electronic beats (think The Postal Service) and Nikolas Thompson’s calm, seductive voice, the songs reveal various parts and melodies at a leisurely pace. These unhurried tracks are long on a slinky, sunglasses-atnight-cool mood, and short on riffs or explosions of adrenaline.

The restraint is what sets the album aside from other pop efforts; KFR always leaves the listener wanting more. From the charming piano of “Airplane Nosebleed” to the hip-hop blast of “28-16-15-7” to the clapping and group sing-along on “Song for the Dandies,” the act creates a mood, sets melodies and then sticks flourishes on without maxing out. I suppose that’s what the live show is for.

Whatever the band’s intentions, “Solid Gold” throws down some excellent tunes. Here’s to cool.

"Solid Gold" is available at both Guestroom Records locations, Bandcamp, iTunes and shows. —Stephen Carradini
- Oklahoma Gazette

Extensive Interview, please see URL. - Mercury Photo

When Kite Flying Robot took the stage I swear if felt like Harry Potter just walked into the bar. Magic was in the air. Before I knew it I was off the bar stool dancing shoulder to shoulder in the smoky crowd. The Hilo was cramped but no one seemed to let it cramp their style. Who cares about the beer being spilt on you or the smoke in your face? Not I.
The music moved through the room and no one, not a single hand could restrain from clapping another.

Their latest album "Solid Gold" released in December of 2010 and I'm shocked I had no idea. The Norman Music Festival is coming up soon, April 28-30, and Kite Flying Robot along with over 200 more acts will be performing. You can find them on April 30 on the Blackwatch Stage at 5 p.m. - nakeddancetothis

Kite Flying Robot sounds like a textured, casio driven fun-fest with a horn section! Bass, drum machine, velvety David Byrne-esque vocals…who could ask for more? Sounds like: Falling down a retro, neon-streaked rabbit hole.
- Independent Cause: Tulsa's Independent Music Blog

Kite Flying Robot is an eclectic mishmash of indie pop synths and drum machines with glassy guitars and marching band horns to keep it from sounding canned. Etheric, slowly evolving melodies nestle themselves comfortably between bouncy dance beats and funky bass lines.

Their lyrics evoke the surreal boredom-trance that gives birth to colorful, dancing daydreams. It's like they created a wormhole connecting the furthest reaches of the left brain to the right. This music is some pretty well-played escapism.
- Tulsa Musician's Network

Weilding ukeleles, casio keyboards, this Oklahoma USA are Bongwater in full on disco trash mode! Cool! - Bull and Gate, London

Jeffrey Lewis's favourite New York Casio Vs. Ukelele mash up touring the UK to support their Colour TV EP. - Old Queen's Head, London