Richie Aldente is among a handful of rising Seattle bands that are redefining the sound of the post-grunge city. With an intelligent fusion of dance beats, yacht rock, disco and contemporary hip-hop, the band creates ferociously infectious music that is smartly crafted but unabashedly fun-loving. While the sound hints of influences from the 70’s and 80’s, it is decidedly modern, appealing to a new generation of listeners who were born long after the genres that inspired it. Richie’s 2011 debut CD “For the Ladies,” received instantaneous praise and quickly established the band as one of the most popular groups on the thriving Seattle club scene. The recording, which features the original trio of Tim Kennedy (Earshot Jazz nominee for Best New Artist) on keys and vocals, Ian Sheridan (Jason Mraz) on bass and Claudio Rochat-Felix (Slick Rick) on drums, reaped rave reviews for its crisp production quality, bumping tracks and droll lyrics that purr with sexual innuendo. The video single “Cougar Hunt,” a quirky homage to May/December romances, has received over 10,000 hits on You Tube. The recent addition of new members– Geoff Sheridan on keys, Dan Rainard on guitar and Jimmie Herrod on vocals–allowed Richie to expand its sound and fueled its artistic velocity. Riding this momentum, the band headed back into the studio to record its new CD “Disco Baby,” the highly anticipated follow-up to “For the Ladies.” Marked by quantum grooves, solid hooks and fresh harmonies, “Disco Baby” is an irresistible invitation to get on your feet, put your hands in the air and join in the almighty get down. The 11-track disc features guest performances by pioneer saxophonist Skerik (Critters Buggin, Bandelabra, Garaga a Toir, Syncopated Taint Septet, Crack Sabbath) and rap artist Illspokinn, who also appeared on “Cougar Hunt.” “Disco Baby” is scheduled for release in mid-September. In just a few short years, Richie Aldente has cultivated a loyal and spirited following. Live performances are high-energy romps complete with disco balls, glittering costumes and dance inciting shout outs to the crowd. The atmosphere at a Richie show is exuberant, joyful and uniquely inclusive. The band plays to packed nightspots and festivals throughout the Northwest and its fan base continues to grow. Richie is a favorite among club DJ’s on both coasts. WIth the release of “Disco Baby,” Richie Aldente looks forward to extending its reach to new audiences across the globe. Visit richiealdente.com to download (or stream) Disco Baby!