Fun Machine

Released in 2012, Fun Machine is a pivotal EP in Lake Street Dive's discography, serving as the project that catapulted them into the national spotlight, largely due to the viral success of their sidewalk performance of 'I Want You Back.' While the band had already released two full-length albums, this collection of covers (and one original) solidified their signature sound: a blend of jazz-schooled precision and classic soul sensibility. Recorded with a minimalist approach, the album highlights the interplay between Bridget Kearney’s melodic upright bass lines and Mike Calabrese’s pocket-heavy drumming. Rachael Price’s vocals are the centerpiece, demonstrating a rare ability to navigate complex jazz intervals while maintaining the grit of a soul singer. The EP is notable for its diverse source material, reimagining 80s pop, 60s rock, and classic soul through a singular, acoustic-focused lens. It remains a fan favorite and a definitive example of the 'Lake Street Dive sound' before they moved toward more polished, studio-centric production on later albums like Bad Self Portraits.