LA indie band Rilo Kiley reunites after 17 years
Rilo Kiley’s unexpected reunion this year mirrors the band’s sudden split years ago, as guitarist Blake Sennett recalls. Initially, the Los Angeles indie band started to drift apart following a gig at the Greek Theatre in Los Angeles back in June 2008, which was their last show until May of this year. By 2011, Sennett hinted in interviews that the band might be approaching its end, and Jenny Lewis, the lead vocalist and Sennett’s songwriting collaborator, eventually declared Rilo Kiley officially disbanded a few years later.
Fast forward to 2021, and Sennett and Lewis, now residing in Nashville, were immersed in their individual pursuits and lives, still maintaining a strong friendship cultivated during their years in the band. The idea of a reunion first took shape casually during a conversation at Lewis’s house when the topic of friends reuniting for shows came up. The seeds of a potential reunion were planted, and when Just Like Heaven music festival extended an invitation to the band last year, the idea gained momentum. The offer was simple – reunite for the Pasadena festival in May. Lewis, Sennett, bassist Pierre de Reeder, and drummer Jason Boesel discussed the proposal, and soon, the decision was made to reunite.
Subsequent festival offers followed, leading Rilo Kiley to consider additional shows, eventually resulting in a full-fledged tour. Sennett and the rest of the band members found themselves at a crossroads, contemplating whether to return home between shows or continue performing, ultimately committing to an extended run of concert dates.
Reflecting on the band’s resurgence, Sennett acknowledges the renewed excitement and energy among the group as they embark on this unexpected journey. The chemistry and camaraderie that defined Rilo Kiley in its prime have resurfaced as they hit the stage once again after 17 years. The band is set to bring their music to fans at the Greek Theatre in Los Angeles, with shows scheduled for October 14 and 18, marking a significant moment in their musical journey.
As Rilo Kiley reunites and reconnects with their audience, fans eagerly anticipate the revival of their favorite indie band’s signature sound. The band’s unexpected return serves as a reminder of the enduring power of music to bring people together and reignite the passion for creating and performing. Through their reunion tour, Rilo Kiley continues to captivate audiences with their timeless music and engaging performances, drawing on the authenticity and creativity that first brought them together as a band.