Sylvan Esso Spins Kendrick Lamar, tUnE-yArDs, D’Angelo Songs At CPR’s OpenAir

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7min 37sec
<p>(Photo: CPR / Daniel Mescher)</p>
<p>Sylvan Esso </p>
Photo: Sylvan Esso at CPR&#039;s OpenAir
Sylvan Esso

Sylvan Esso stopped by CPR's OpenAir earlier this month to take over the airwaves for a Guest DJ session. The North Carolina indie pop duo was in town for two sold-out Colorado concerts in support of its sophomore album, "What Now."

Members Amelia Meath and Nick Sanborn shared a wide variety of music -- including a D'Angelo song that inspired "What Now," an Aaliyah song they bonded over in the early days of the band and even some tunes from their other musical endeavors. They spoke with Alisha Sweeney about their selections and their upcoming festival in their home state.

Stream the Guest DJ interview via the link above. Interview highlights:

Singer Amelia Meath on seeing D'Angelo live at Bonnaroo:

"It's the best show that I've ever seen. I screamed and reached for him! Which I've never done ever. For anybody. Except for D'Angelo."

Producer Nick Sanborn on 'Dog Song' by Mountain Man, one of Meath's previous bands:

"It's such a fragile and strong song at the same time. And there's this endless chasm of silence. I just remember being blown away by how well they were able to wield that power."

Enjoy a Spotify playlist of Sylvan Esso's song selections below.