We'll be together forever because I've tied our shoelaces together.

I've noticed that a few bloggerss have mentioned The Thermals lately (most recently Jason at Bastard Camus) and that's rad because they're a great band. Most people know (or maybe you don't?) that Thermals bassist, Kathy Foster has been involved in lots of other musical projects, including Haelah, Hutch & Kathy, Butterfly Transformation Service, and All Girl Summer Fun Band.

All Girl Summer Fun Band is a pop quartet from Portland, OR. I first heard them when I was DJing at WUOG. They were one of those great rotation finds I came across at 4:30 one morning during my shift. I loved them right away.

In addition to Kathy, the group also includes Jen Sbragia, Kim Baxter, and Arirak Douangpanya. The girls got together after a Softies show in 1998, when Kim came up to Jen with a tape of her music. Jen liked what she heard, and so Kim introduced her to Arirak and Kathy who were interested in doing similar things musically. When Kim suggested that they all get together that summer to make music, everyone was excited about the idea and said, "yes!" Kim said that they would be an "all girl summer fun band" and that became their name.

All of the girls sing and play at least two instruments. You can't help but feel great after hearing one of their poppy, playful, summery songs. They write about friendships, boys, and good times, singing in great harmonies that you find yourself humming along to. If you're looking for a fun, easy going, cheerful, summer, All Girl Summer Fun Band should be your soundtrack.

The show section of their page says that they're working on their third album for K Records. In the meantime, Kathy is keeping busy with The Thermals and her tshirt line Daydream Factory. Kim designs her own line of handbags, so be sure to check out Kissycake as well.

There are lots of mp3s to hear on their site. Go listen!