On Aug. 20, WKCO debuted its first “Middle Path Session” of the semester, featuring the Kenyon student band Tea Time. The duo’s performance was filmed in The Gund, and featured Tommy Cody ’25 on the keyboard and Tali Tufeld ’24 on the drums.

Middle Path Sessions are filmed, produced and released by WKCO, and serve as a chance for Kenyon’s student bands to perform covers or original songs in locations on campus. Each performance is then published on WKCO’s YouTube channel and website for members of the community to view and enjoy. The sessions are a recent addition to WKCO’s repertoire starting with another one of Kenyon’s student bands, Dire Coyote, performing over the summer. 

Tea Time’s performance featured their original song “Matcha Powder” which consisted of a catchy and eclectic jazz blend that was easy on the ears and executed smoothly. With just two instruments, Cody and Tufeld managed to create a song that kept the audience actively engaged and eager for more. Without lyrics, the listener was able to focus on the different musical elements of the song and likely to notice its subtleties. “I had the main rhythmic melody in my head and as far as the melodic notes that was completely Tommy,” Tufeld said. The two wrote the song together early last year and when WKCO began Middle Path Session’s they were excited for the opportunity to perform it. One unique aspect of the sessions is how it was designed to highlight many locations on campus. Tea Time played in the Community Foundation Theater, which offered the performance cool acoustics.

One of the most impressive aspects of Tea Time’s performance was its use of the keyboard. The instrument captured the spirit of the song as Cody played the keys, making the song all the more interesting and catchy. The drums also add depth to the song, making it feel balanced, crisp and flavorful. 

The song’s changing tempo also added variety. More fast-paced moments added intensity, and when the song slowed down at the end of the performance, it wrapped up nicely and with ease. “The drum groove was used to accentuate those hits — it kind of felt natural to me,” Tufeld said.

Tea Time’s energy remained infectious throughout the performance as both members of the band seemed to thoroughly enjoy their time in the spotlight. Their Middle Path Session is impressive, enjoyable and refreshing, reaffirming the talent of Kenyon’s student musicians. It’s safe to say that this is only the start of the incredible musical talent that will shine at Kenyon this academic year.