Best known as founding members of the long-running Chicago band the Sea & Cake, Sam Prekop and Archer Prewitt trade in tightly constructed, jazz-flecked pop songs for sprawling instrumental synthesis. Touring in support of Prekop's recent LP of modular synthesizer compositions The Republic, Prekop and Prewitt play a new, untitled composition built from Prekop's modulating melodic patterns and layered with Prewitt's lithe, soaring guitar lines. We talk with Prekop about his history with this style of instrumental music and its connections to his better-known work with the Sea & Cake. Recorded live at KDHX in St. Louis, Missouri on May 19, 2015. Engineered by Andy Coco.

Under the direction of pianist and songwriter Ellis Ludwig-Leone, this Brooklyn-based octet have released two albums that mix symphonic swells, beat-driven pop and evocative vocal interplay. We talk with Ludwig-Leone, vocalist Charlene Kaye and trumpet player John Brandon about the band's evolution from studio concoction to thrilling, club-filling live act. San Fermin plays the songs "Emily," "Jackrabbit" and "Reckoning," all from the new Jackrabbit LP. Recorded live at KDHX in St. Louis, Missouri on May 14, 2015. Engineered by Andy Coco.