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At a live show, Bedford Falls captivates audiences with its dynamic connection, transforming each performance into a collective celebration. Fans become an integral part of the act, turning every song into a shared anthem. Their genre-defying music invites everyone to sing along, fostering a unique atmosphere of unity.

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Formed in 2014, Bedford Falls comprises Dato (vocals), Mikho (guitar), Migro (bass), and Sandro (drums and backing vocals). The band has emerged as a significant player in Georgia’s music landscape, drawing inspiration from Frank Capra’s film *It’s a Wonderful Life*. They adopted their name from the fictional town, symbolizing community and connection among its residents.

Reflecting on their name during an interview, the band shares, “We believed ‘it’s a wonderful life,’” highlighting how their moniker has become synonymous with their identity. Dato recalls urging Mikho to watch the film before finalizing the name, emphasizing the importance of understanding the story’s meaning. “I wanted him to understand the story behind it, to feel the meaning that made it right for us,” he adds.

In their early years, the name influenced their sound. Early tracks like “Sazamtro” create a serene, homey atmosphere, often evoking the warmth of the holiday spirit. Today, their music spans genres and languages, as they sing in both English and Georgian. The band believes that creativity knows no limits, and regardless of language, music is a universal medium.

When asked which song best represents Bedford Falls, the band offers various choices, including “Kino,” “Come,” “Idaho,” and “Calipso.” However, a common thread links their music: the deep emotional connection they foster with their audience.

This connection is why they prefer to record in their home environment rather than professional studios. “We’ve tried recording in professional studios, but we didn’t like the results. It often felt soulless,” Sandro explains. The sterile feel of studios made it hard to capture their intended sound. Creating music in a familiar, natural setting allows the band to express their true selves and connect with listeners on a deeper level.

Reflecting on their early recording experiences, Sandro shares, “In the beginning, we didn’t even have a licensed recording program. There were times the power went out, and everything was lost.” Yet, they achieved significant tracks like “Dreamer Once” and “Thrill is Gone” using basic tools.

“We would work all night, afraid to sleep, because if the computer went into sleep mode, we’d lose everything,” Dato recalls, further underscoring their commitment during those formative years. “Everything that happened worked out for the best,” Migro adds, noting the benefits of their challenges.

Since their inception, Bedford Falls has remained proactive. The band toured Europe last year, performing at notable festivals including the Montreux Jazz Festival in Switzerland and Paradiso in Amsterdam. Recently, they held sold-out concerts with a symphony orchestra, presenting re-orchestrated versions of their beloved songs.

The group is set to release their new album, *LAZYBONES*, in 2026. “This album reflects our emotional journey over the past year, which has been especially challenging,” Dato reveals. The upcoming tracks tackle themes of hopelessness, the struggle with apathy, and the effort to hold onto love amidst adversity. While these themes may not always be overtly described in the lyrics, their impact resonates deeply within the music.

“Sonically, the album introduces new elements while retaining the signature sound our fans love,” they promise.

Discussions about their musical influences reveal an eclectic taste, ranging from Geese and Of Montreal to mainstream pop. Regardless of their individual preferences, they bond over a shared admiration for The Beatles. “We could talk about The Beatles for hours, and honestly, nothing has changed in these ten years,” they laugh.

Reflecting on their journey, Bedford Falls transitioned from an unknown entity playing small venues to a recognized name at major festivals. “We once asked a bar owner for more pay for a gig, and he offered us a chance to sell tickets,” they recount. This pivotal moment marked their first foray into promoting their shows, leading to a packed venue filled with fans singing along.

Discussing future aspirations, the band dreams of performing at the Glastonbury Festival and making appearances on *Saturday Night Live*. However, their core desire shines through: “We feel a real sense of loss that our music could resonate with more people globally. It’s not about profit; it’s about connecting meaningfully.”

“Personally, I believe even Tyler, the Creator would enjoy our music if it reached him,” Sandro adds with enthusiasm.

When addressing newcomers to their music, they humorously quip, “You’re late!” They encourage listeners to discover their work, emphasizing the universal power of music to touch hearts regardless of origin.

This article originally appeared in Billboard Georgia.