Philadelphia harmony group Market East were introduced to the world via their mysterious, haunting self-titled EP in 2010. The band, which features Kurt Cain on vocals, Vincent John on vocals, bass, guitar and keys, and Maxwell Perla on vocals, drums, and percussion, mixed Everly Brothers harmonies, a lo-fi Velvet Underground recording style, and poetic lyrics reminiscent of Simon & Garfunkel and the Zombies. The result was a raw, timeless sound that left a lasting impression on listeners. 

 

Shortly after, the group released another EP, Children of Summer, which delved deeper into psychadelia and sunshine pop. They followed it up with the lush, orchestral 7” Our Love Will Always Win / Orange & Me via Canadian label La-Ti-Da Records. Then, not much was heard from them for several years.

 

In 2025, Market East finally returned with its most soulful and poignant offering to date, the single “Roses.” Recorded to tape in Philly at Eraserhood Sound Studios, “Roses” is undoubtedly the funkiest and most powerful Market East has ever sounded. Kurt Cain and Vincent John trade lead vocals in the verses, while Maxwell Perla joins in for the group’s trademark celestial three part harmonies on the choruses. The lyrics paint a nostalgic portrait that evokes the feeling of looking back on the “golden years” of one’s life, while wondering if the future holds the same warm emotions.

 

Market East followed up “Roses” with the dreamy “Circles of Time.” The group creates a hypnotizing sonic landscape reminiscent of Brian Wilson, only if he had spent a summer in Brazil listening to cosmic country records with Quarteto Em Cy. In less than three minutes, the group touches upon chamber pop, soul, doo-wop, country, Americana, world music, and psychedelia, creating a sound both intoxicating and fresh.

 

“Roses” and “Circles of Time” were produced by Market East and Eraserhood Sound, and were recorded to analog tape in Philadelphia. This is just the beginning of the group’s comeback - stay tuned for more music and a major announcement coming soon.