Posted on: August 12, 2012 Posted by: James McQuiston Comments: 0

Los Angeles-based quartet Leftover Cuties is smiling big after their song was chosen to be a part of the Summer Olympic Games. The band’s cheerful tune “Smile Big” debuted in a Samsung Galaxy S III commercial during the Opening Ceremony on July 27th, and will continue airing throughout the games.

“We are thrilled that our song was chosen for this unique ad and honored that it is airing during such an important time as the Olympics,” says singer Shirli McAllen. “It still feels surreal.”

“Smile Big” highlights the Leftover Cuties signature noir-pop sound, showcasing ukulele, brushed drums, double bass, and trumpet. The placement was made working in conjunction with NYC based licensing partner The Music Playground.

Leftover Cuties is currently in the studio working on their forthcoming album with producer Jake Sinclair (Weezer, Pink, Butch Walker) which is due out early 2013. The band recently released an all-covers EP called Departures boasting special arrangements of favorites like “Poker Face” by Lady Gaga and “Don’t Think Twice, It’s All Right” by Bob Dylan. Departures followed their critically acclaimed debut Game Called Life EP which features the breakout title track and theme song to the Showtime hit series The Big C (listen here), as well as their album Places To Go, which was helmed by producer Tony Berg (Peter Gabriel, Pete Yorn).

Singer Shirli McAllen’s velvety vocals combine seamlessly with Austin Nicholsen (bass), Stuart Johnson (drums), and Mike Bolger (keys, horns, accordion) in a way that pays homage to the sophisticated, sultry sounds of yesteryear while embracing the tones of today. Music Connection Magazine raves, “Leftover Cuties are a talented group with a unique sound to call their own, one that separates them from the vast sea of bands on the scene.” Influential Los Angeles radio station KCRW lauds the band’s “sultry crooning, tender melodies, and bittersweet lyrics,” and Examiner.com praises, “In a world where style is too often held in higher regard than talent, Leftover Cuties are the real deal. Their sound is a refreshing breath of air.”

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