Galore Darling: PEP Premiere “All The Love I Got” & Talk Retro Style
Starlight Girls drummer, Karys Rhea, was instantly inspired after hearing “Runaround Sue” playing in a clothing store, motivating her to reexamine the immense catalog of ’50s and early ’60s music. After careful studying of the iconic era of pin-up fashion and girl group harmonies, a one of a kind band was born – PEP. What PEP offers is truly refreshing: a glimpse into the shimmering world of ’50s and early ’60s bubblegum doo-wop with a crisp pop update. We adore PEP’s style, from the choreographed dance moves to the retro music videos, and we have the Galore exclusive! Here today is the premiere of PEP’s new song, a cover of The Marvelettes, “All The Love I Got”. Listen to the dazzling song below and read our interview with PEP’s, Karys Rhea.
by: Shannon Kurlander
1. Your new single, a cover of The Marvelettes “All The Love I Got”, fits perfectly into you repertoire…but what motivated you to choose this particular song?
I first heard the song while listening to “The Marvelettes Forever: The Complete Motown Albums Vol. 1.” I think what initially drew me to this unfamiliar b-side was the mellotron, which we wound up replacing with an organ on our version and a melodica when we play it live. The way it stuck out yet simultaneously blended in the mix gave it such an unmistakable vintage sound that is nearly impossible to duplicate today. We have so much new technology that allows us to re-create a pseudo-retro sound, but we can only ever get so close to it. You listen to the drums on this track, particularly the way the toms sound when the drummer fills, and you understand what is so precious about music back then. Not to mention Gladys Horton’s raw and raspy vocal tone….it gives me the chills every time.
2. What are five quintessential albums you would suggest to someone rediscovering ’50s and early ’60s music?
There are so many good ones! But if I have to narrow it down…Five pop/soul albums of that time period that were influential to me include:
Jackie Wilson—Baby Workout
Dion & The Belmonts— Presenting Dion & The Belmonts
The Ronettes—Presenting the Fabulous Ronettes featuring Veronica
The Shangri-Las- Leader of The Pack
Sam Cooke- Night Beat
Beach Boys- Pet Sounds (released a couple years later, but still a must to mention)
3. Channeling this iconic era of fashion appears to be an integral part of the PEP image. What are your favorite spots to stock up your vintage wardrobe?
The girls and I actually do most of our shopping online these days (Asos, Nastygal, Modcloth). But there are some awesome rockabilly/pinup-style boutiques in NYC that are great to visit if you’re feeling nostalgic for the ‘50s. I would personally recommend SlapBack in Williamsburg, Tatyana Boutique in the East Village, and ENZ’s in the East Village. I also recently met a woman named Kenley Collins who has her own neo-vintage online clothing store. Definitely check her out.
[Kenley Collins]
4. Are you fans of Mad Men? If so, who is your favorite character?
I’m actually one of the few people I know who isn’t a fan of the show, for various reasons. That’s not to say that I don’t appreciate the show’s authentic portrayal of the ’50s/’60s aesthetic. Some of those outfits and hair styles are seriously hott!!!
5. You’re heading out on tour- what destinations are you most looking forward to visiting
All of them! I know my band is particularly excited about playing the Mayan Theater in Los Angeles and the Henry Miller Library in Big Sur, but if I had to pick one it would definitely be San Francisco, my hometown. It’ll be rad to finally play for my family and friends back home (not too mention all 30 of my father’s employees who he bought tickets for!)
