Antoinette is a shining example of the myriad of hidden gems here in Buffalo. Their music is definitely rooted in jazz, but not to the point where it strays from a subtle indie-rock appeal. The group could easily draw comparisons to fellow Buffalo band The Reign of Kindo, but Antoinette is female-fronted, and pianist/singer Mariah Douglas really sells it. Douglas's bandmates, guitarist Bryan Kutnyak, bassist Doug Gurr, and drummer Elliott Douglas are perfect compliments - all things considered, Antoinette's music is poppy enough to pass for the band behind an adult-contemporary musician like Norah Jones, but their laid-back jazz feel is an added bonus that gives this particular group of musicians more of an independent vibe. I'm a particular fan of the soaring guitar tones and smooth piano-based rhythms in "Perfect Stranger" below.

Their next show is this Friday, October 26 at the Project 308 Gallery. Joining them will be fellow Buffalo artists Inlite, Johnny Lucas, and more. They will be launching a kickstarter later this Fall to fund their next batch of songs - until then you can pick up a their latest EP here for free.