Tennis Continues Courting Success

Despite being a coastal city, San Diego doesn't get a whole lot of ocean-themed music. Our proximity to the great Pacific would seem like a natural point of inspiration for local musicians, but with the occasional exception of acts like Wavves and the Soft Pack, we typically have to import our seafaring songs from other places.

Apparently, one of those places in Colorado. On Sept. 14, the Denver duo known as Tennis will return to San Diego for a show at the Casbah. Bandmates/lifemates Patrick Riley and Alaina Moore have enjoyed some smooth sailing this year, thanks to the success of their debut album, Cape Dory. The record was recorded as a way to document their 7-month sailing trip around the Eastern seaboard, but instead it blew them into the uncharted waters of indie stardom.

Tennis have spent most of the year touring in support of the album, and even stopped by the Tin Can Alehouse last February to deliver an exciting, intimate performance. Theyโ€™re currently touring with the Brit-rocking four-piece the Vaccines, who will join them at the Casbah show.

Thereโ€™s no news yet on a follow-up to Cape Dory, but Tennis did just release a cover of Brenda Leeโ€™s "Is It True?" that you can download from their website for the price of an e-mail address. If nothing else, it should tide you over until more San Diego bands start singing sea shanties.

Chris Maroulakos is a writer and managing editor for the San Diego music blog Owl and Bear.

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