Alto

Comprised of three adorable Westwood college students, Alto sings in perfect pitch harmonies all the while playing their respective band-geek instruments: violin, viola, upright bass (and many more). The result can be found on their self-titled debut EP which is part vintage cabaret, campfire folk, and sunshine pop. As either a Jenny Lewis fan-club or little sister to Venice Beach’s The Dust Bowl Revival, Alto delivers true promise. And they even won their school’s talent show (cute right?). Here’s their folk pop single “Vocable.” - Free Bike Valet

It really can’t get any sweeter than ‘Vocable‘. As I was listening, I found myself wanting to go outside, just download this track, hook up my headphones and go for a walk. I never get the urge to do that. Ever. For some reason, I feel that this song is best enjoyed in the sunlight, I wonder if Alto meant for it to be that way? Personally, I think ‘Vocable’ has lightened my mood which is always something I appreciate. @LeahLovecat - Dingus

The band is called Alto, their debut self-titled (released June 26th); one girl plays the bass, another the viola and the third the violin, but if you're imagining anything like a chamber ensemble you're far off. These three lovely ladies, who met within the walls of UCLA back in 2009, play with the help of some accomplices on the drums, sax, guitar & mandolin, a catchy acoustic folk-pop with a gypsy touch in times and some hints of mid-20th century French chanson. Their vocal harmonies and strings none-too-overbearing or grand-sounding make for a most charming trio that tells stories of love and other troubles, all served in a conversational mode, light-hearted and genuine. Currently touring California, Jessica, Veronica & Nicolette will be back in Los Angeles this fall with a show at The Mint on September 25th. - Tracy Mamoun - The Deli Magazine