By Zach Collier
Today, WXPN/Philadelphia‘s popular public radio music program, World Cafe, dropped the first episode of their new series: “Sense of Place: Provo, Utah.” The seven episode series explores the nooks and crannies of the burgeoning Provo music scene.
For the first episode, host Raina Douris tells the story of acclaimed pop/rock act The Aces, currently signed to Red Bull Records. The all-female group formed in Provo, Utah and were frequent performers at Velour Live Music Gallery. They also headlined Fork Fest in 2023. In addition to thrilling live performances, the episode features a touching interview between The Aces and World Cafe producer Miguel Perez.
The interview discusses the band’s latest album, I’ve Loved You For So Long. The Aces’ most vulnerable record to date, it centers thematically around their teenage years hiding from the judgments of broader Provo culture. Three of the four band members identify as queer, and their formative years occurred at a time when Utah’s atmosphere was politically charged – especially surrounding LGBTQ issues.
For the band members who identify as queer, this was a time of a lot of sadness and depression as they wrestled with their identities. Through it all, though, the Provo music scene gave them hope and provided a scene where they could express themselves in a healthy and supportive atmosphere. Velour Live Music Gallery was a literal safe haven.
“I think Corey [Fox] is such a special person, the way that he was able to cultivate that safe space in the middle of a place that was so rigid and so by the book,” lead singer Cristal Ramirez said during the interview. “You walked into Velour and you felt like you weren’t in Provo, Utah anymore.”
The interview also provides a glimpse into Provo’s music culture, and how positive, healthy competition between bands led to bills stacked with talent; a constant drive to improve their craft; and even led to innovation with on-stage props and performance techniques. Their interview is honest, respectful, and real, and is a great introduction to the pressure machine that has generated such a prolific and interesting music scene.
Distributed by NPR to 280 radio stations across the United States, World Cafe exposes nearly 600,000 listeners each week to new music. Make sure to follow The Aces on Instagram, and listen to the first episode below.