Upstate Rubdown makes a joyful, light-footed noise. With a sound reminiscent of Lake Street Dive, the New York 7-piece (plus Emily Kaplan on the flute) melds soul, jazz and aggressive desk-drumming into one unstoppable blend.

There’s a good message in those lyrics, too: “Don’t be dismayed by a fight that you can’t win / Better to lose on your feet than to lose on your chin.” Thank you for sharing the video with us — and good to see you all again!

— Ben

We’re sharing videos from the 2016 Tiny Desk Contest. If you’re interested in entering the contest, check out the Official Rules and get started on your video! We’re taking submissions until Feb. 2.

Andrew Frey, Sept. 19, 2015

Photo from Upstate Rubdown’s Bandcamp

“We’re home!” shouts Kate Scarlett, pointing at the stage beneath her and the rest of Upstate Rubdown, the seven-piece jazz-folk-Americana outfit, reminiscent of old-time rag.  The sweat-drenched patrons of Snug Harbor, stretching from wall-to-wall, roar as some raise their glasses to the occasion.  

Without hesitation, and in the upbeat fashion of Upstate Rubdown, Ryan Chappell, launching into the band’s latest folk and jazz-infused single “No Slack,” triggers the late-night dance party the show would be come.

Tiny Desk Contest Entrant: Upstate Rubdown (Harry D'Agostino, Melanie Glenn, Mary Kenney, Kate Scarlett, Dean Mahoney and Ryan Chappell)

City: New Paltz, N.Y.

Original Song: "How Ya Been"

hello tumblr! i just wanted to show you guys this great band, Upstate Rubdown! They write their own songs and they have their own website here . They're talented and have been traveling across the U.S to share their music, and I wanted to give them a little more recognition considering they deserve it so much (i listen to them when im down and just want to dance and it helps a lot you feel)