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Jukebox the Ghost talks DC and new album

Writer's picture: Brittani WertBrittani Wert

Jukebox the Ghost, the power piano-pop trio from right here in Washington DC, is headed home! The band is comprised of vocalist/pianist Ben Thornewill, guitarist/vocalist Tommy Siegel, and drummer Jesse Kristin. They have blown up over the last few years and are ready to get back on the road with a brand new album entitled Off To The Races. The Set List caught up with Tommy Siegel over email to chat about their start in DC and their fifth studio album.

Photo by Shervin Lainez


The band members attended the George Washington University and, upon the band’s formation in 2006, worked to find their place amidst the locals. Siegel mentions that he is a huge fan of classic DC post-punk and hardcore, but the upcoming indie-pop scene of the area in the early 2000s fostered the creation and success of Jukebox the Ghost in earnest. While the band’s music is far from their local hardcore counterparts, their insanely catchy pop will blow you away just the same.

Jukebox The Ghost screams Broadway musical, Walk The Moon, and Queen all at the same time. Thornewill’s smooth falsetto vocals shine while Siegel’s harmonies create unity and depth. The band’s theatrical and colorful persona bring bouncy beats with a creative structure to the masses in songs that could definitely pass as summer radio hits.

As for the band’s new record, Off To The Races, they took their time with the writing and recording process. Going into the studio with 75 demos and narrowing it down to create a complete and cohesive record took time; however, it was well worth it in the end, according to Siegel. The album has captured the attention of fans everywhere and been well reviewed by critics. Jukebox The Ghost is ready to get back on the road and play some of their newer, more challenging songs such as “Diane,” “Jumpstarted,” and “People Go Home.”

The band has played over one thousand shows across the world including headlining tours, multiple festivals, late-night television spots, and as support for acts such as Ben Folds and Motion City Soundtrack. According to Siegel, the band has also received Rachel Ray’s stamp of approval and played her private house party at South By Southwest a while back! As Jukebox The Ghost has grown from local DC shows at small venues such as Black Cat to national sold-out tours, the 9:30 Club has remained a favorite for the phenomenal sound.

You can catch Jukebox The Ghost on May 17 at the 9:30 Club. I wouldn’t be surprised if this show sells out, so support local music and buy your tickets now!

(Originally published on The Hill Is Home)

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