Little Dragon: Tiny Desk Concert

Mitra I. Arthur | Aug 11, 2023
The last time Swedish band Little Dragon performed for Tiny Desk, the group wasn't actually at the Desk. Like a number of Tiny Desk alum who played between 2020 and 2022, Little Dragon delivered its debut Tiny Desk as a (home) concert in the band's Gothenburg studio. That performance provided a comforting balm to many during the early and confusing months of the global pandemic. Finally hosting the quartet in our Washington, D.C. office was the ultimate goal, and in this in person Tiny Desk, Little Dragon delivers a performance awash with upbeat and optimistic melodies balanced by a grounded presentation.
Since the band's debut album in 2007, Little Dragon created a blend of R&B, soul, electronica and dance pop that pushes the boundaries of simplistic genre classification. The whimsical whistling of drummer Erik Bodin in "Tumbling Dice" is the perfect complement to singer Yukimi Nagano encouraging us to "make it worth every step as we go." The cosmic pop tones of "Ritual Union'' are stripped away here, and the driving beat in this slowed down rendition heightens the contemplative lyrics on marriage. "Gold," from the band's newest album Slugs of Love, is a standout in this set. The verses build to a funky, thumping bassline, courtesy of Bodin and bassist Fredrik Wallin, anchoring a chorus that interpolates the Whitney Houston tune "Million Dollar Bill."
Keyboardist Håkan Wirenstrand delivers flowing embellishments and solos on every track, particularly in the last song of the set, "Where You Belong," from 2020's New Me, Same Us. Nagano's honeyed vocals make the song simultaneously mournful and hopeful, as she touches her hand to her chest, reminding us our lost loved ones have "been there all along, right where you belong."
SET LIST
"Tumbling Dice"
"Ritual Union"
"Gold"
"Where You Belong"
MUSICIANS
Yukimi Nagano: vocals
Erik Bodin: drums, vocals
Fredrik Wallin: bass, vocals
Håkan Wirenstrand: keys, vocals
TINY DESK TEAM
Producer: Bobby Carter
Director/Editor: Joshua Bryant
Audio Engineer: Josh Rogosin
Videographers: Joshua Bryant, Maia Stern, Kara Frame, Sofia Seidel
Audio Assistant: Kwesi Lee
Production Assistant: Zayrha Rodriguez
Photographer: Michael Zamora
Tiny Desk Team: Suraya Mohamed, Hazel Cills, Ashley Pointer
VP, Visuals and Music: Keith Jenkins
Senior VP, Programming: Anya Grundmann
#tinydesk #nprmusic #littledragon

[@summaof83]

One of the most underrated groups ever...I can listen to Yukimi's soulful voice any time of the day.

[@JheriCurlJankins]

Ditto! I would ♥ a duet with her and Nai Palm of Hiatus Kaiyote!

[@casipajaro3005]

aunque kexp y tiny desk les sobran, y quienes les escuchan a lo largo del tiempo, nice band

[@slavadabadoo]

One of the most underrated groups ever!!!!!! LD is the sneaky underdog in my fav bands of all time list.

[@jdsboston]

Going to see them live tonight. Couldn't agree more

[@sebastianbarbosaestudio]

sublime music

[@kekahili]

Little Dragon is eternal. May they never stop making music.

[@alefly]

00:00 - Tumbling dice 3:14 - Ritual Union 7:07 - Gold 11:11 Where you belong

[@theycallmeyaz]

Thanks for posting the time stamps!

[@hello50881]

11:11😮

[@fernandoguapodz7]

Thanks ✌️

[@dougfrombama9438]

Heroes don't always wear capes❤

[@kridonkri6505]

Totally necessary

[@shortsupply4760]

So about 10 years ago I was dating this girl. Her mom offered us tickets to imagine dragons for later that evening. We obviously got super excited and started planning. About an hour later we realised that if imagine dragons were actually coming to Cape Town it would be huge, we would have heard about it and it would have been at the stadium and not the small venue we had tickets to. upon further inspection, the tickets were for little dragon. The girl didn't like any music that wasn't on the radio and deemed them too sad, we didn't go. I was heartbroken. When we broke up I played little dragon on repeat, they helped pull me through some very dark times. Twice is one of the best songs ever

[@adlibby6448]

Twice is the best song period

[@hunnibunniyadi]

Wheww 🥹 hearing this rendition of Ritual Union, feels like I’m giving my 20-something year old self a hug 🫂, I’m now in my Mid 30s. Music really transcends time like nothing else.

[@hunterkeels8247]

Looking great from 42 too- I absolutely love these guys, more and more over time.

[@davediaz1742]

Same!

[@insanitynprofanity]

This band is just something else. They radiate something impeccable.

[@ijm1261]

Like a morning where you are awake and around loved ones and doing something fun soon and happy and have the windows open.

[@davidblack1405]

Well said

[@patalva4323]

Been listening to them since 2007 in high school. They have had such a huge impact in my life and it is such a treat to see them on Tiny Desk sounding incredibleeee! Thank you to your team Tiny Desk ❤️❤️❤️❤️ Little Dragon my favorite band you guys are so amazing come to Miami!!! 🫶🏽🫶🏽🫶🏽

[@allisonbishop9365]

Me too! I listened to Machine Dreams during art class in high school ❣️

[@davidclark2476]

same here

[@QuietStorm26]

Same. I heard feather and runabout and never looked back.

[@larajcurtis]

Yes to this! Watching this was like seeing the last 10 years flash in front of your eyes. Little Dragon seemed to be in the background of the best times of your life, dancing in the summer, and the worst, navigating breakups in the winter. A great performance to help mark how we all change and grow through life, and there’s a soundtrack right there through it all.

[@shitcomment]

I was roughly around the same! I loved/love watching the music videos for Crystalfilm and Seconds made by Tahnee Udero and maan, put me in all the feels

[@tomfoster29]

So interesting hearing these piano renditions! Their talent is endless!

[@anamarieanderson6551]

Yes! So nice with the piano 🎹🎹🎹

[@MrBeesknees95]

Didn't realise I needed an acoustic version of these songs! Maybe they'll release it on Spotify 👀

[@slavadabadoo]

Endless!

[@reeeefers]

She said "a Little Dragon classic" and i wasn't expecting an absolutely magical version of the song that got me into them. Yukimi4ever

[@Empresselizabeth1800]

First song I heard from them too 🤍

[@johStephan]

I like this acoustic version much better than the original version. The piano really adds a warm note that is missing in the synth version.

[@falsebounty]

So happy my favorite band got a Tiny Desk concert!

[@anamarieanderson6551]

Mine too! They did one 3 years ago, their 1st TD performance BUT in Gothamberg, their own studio, cuz it was around C19 days and their tour had to be cancelled round that time.

[@jenniferqvarnstrom2384]

Finally!!!!

[@L.O.Hammmm]

Almost burst into tears when they started playing Ritual Union, so many memories with this song. Hearing it at this stage of my life hits so different. And this version of it feels so special.

[@benracz6072]

Where You Belong.... "simultaneously mournful and hopeful" is such a beautifully accurate description. This song has so much depth of emotion. I never knew the intention behind this track, but to me it was an homage to the insecure, doubting self, who finds the confidence to take up space- brushing off feelings of loneliness and imposter syndrome, picking yourself up and moving forward with light. This upbeat rolling piano and the momentum of the bassline capture this feeling so powerfully. Little Dragon you fkn rock 💛

[@LolaRoxie]

Little Dragon???????? BIH----Thank you to all involved for setting this up. I appreciate yall so much

[@dovonn]

Gooped and gagged

[@bringyourownheart]

Amazing. This version of "Gold" is absolutely beautiful.

[@chrisgirardi2827]

I keep coming back to it

[@reeree9819]

only 15 minutes is a criminal offense!

[@crudebaron]

This was one day before they KILLED it at Music Hall of Williamsburg. Go see them live, they're amazing!

[@anamarieanderson6551]

Gonna see em in San Diego 9/27 and I CANNOT wait!!!! Will be my 4th time seeing them live, but every time like the 1st❣❣❣

[@floriankberger]

This show at Music Hall was so so tight!

[@MrOtistetrax]

Saw them twice in Austin in 2014/15; once for SXSW where they struggled a bit with the technical issues related to the festival format (limited soundcheck, etc. - you could tell Yukimi especially was not happy with the sound) and once at the Moody Theatre, where they put on one of the best live shows I've ever seen. One of the hardest-working bands in modern music. They never seem to stop either touring or recording.

[@atomsk_arson]

This feels like running into an old friend and finding out they are doing better than ever!

[@jessicadonovan]

This is the cutest and most lovely comment ever. Imagine having the ability to make people feel like this 🥹

[@msmusic222]

Totally agree!!!

[@markabdul-karriem286]

Exactly ❤

[@chrisgirardi2827]

100%

[@luisavalos8700]

This is exactly how I feel when I listen to them❤❤

[@mat_macy8636]

The love I have for Little Dragon is never ending. It's an epic love story. I will follow this band forever.

[@jermainelandrum6768]

Little Dragon and Tiny Desk were made for each other.

[@haley4855]

Where you belong makes me tear up every time I hear it. It’s just such a gorgeous song 😭😭

[@nahhmyg]

been listening to little dragon since about 2009.. bout to definitely spark one up and get emotional to this performance

[@weseeclearly777]

There was singing before yukimi, and singing after yukimi. Her direct influence on today’s generation of singers is soooo obvious !!!

[@LiquidChamploo]

I’ve been waiting patiently for Little Dragon to get a Tiny Desk! The Marias are coming, I can feel it.

[@survives_shipwrecks6107]

Hopefully Sabrina Claudio also

[@malikkrobinson1756]

I love Yukimi wow

[@nosidezero]

One of my favorite bands! Thank you, Tiny Desk

[@DetectiveGesicht]

This makes me so happy- they’ve enchanted me for ages.

[@chooper1994]

One of my favorite bands!

[@fredkennedy8435]

Danggggggg.... Little Dragon just keeps getting better. This set filled me with so much joy. Beautiful work ya'll. Thank you.

[@jannz079]

Yaas thankyou Tiny Desk! Have loved Little Dragon from their debut. Am still amazed at how textured a 4-piece can sound, esp stripped down like this❤ Ritual Union a solid fave & Gold is just funky silk in true LDfashion. Love Yukimis vocal choices, so fresh and uniquely hers alone. Ty ty ty, been waiting patiently for this one!! 🎉

[@stmichael8463]

So happy Little Dragon has their own !!!

[@jannz079]

@@stmichael8463 Finally!! and love the piano takes in these tracks just gives yet another delicious layer 🥰

[@evanpragliola4947]

So so so happy for this thank you tiny desk. One of the best live shows you can go see if you get a chance to see them in your city… don’t miss it !

[@haylie230]

Geeshhh. The piano in the live version of "Rituals" is insaneeeeee

[@malikkrobinson1756]

Yes! Bro was showing out 😭🔥🔥🔥

[@everaced]

I was going through a lot but suddenly it feels like everything's going to be alright. Thank you Tiny Desk and Little Dragon for changing lives

[@ijustneedmyself]

Listen to Keep You Kimi to hear her literally say "It's alright" 😄

[@slavadabadoo]

Much love. You got this!

[@marcopolo7595]

perfect sound. thank you so much

[@falloutgirl902]

Found them 10 years ago and I’ll never let go! Literally grown up with their music and they NEVER release a bad song c’mon 🫶🏽

[@solarsatori]

One of the best of our time. So original and well thought out. I referenced one of their older songs in my college final because i'm just obsessed.

[@sirtrixx]

The drummer is so relaxed it’s blowing my mind

[@thelashaeproject]

Seriously, thank you for doing this!

[@EenaJay]

That was far too short! Thank you Little Dragon! ❤

[@jbecknc]

Gothenburg’s finest always delivers. The world is a better place with them in it making music.

[@johnm6190]

loved hearing where you belong. their first album was game changing for me at 18. would've loved to have heard no love, after the rain or forever live on here.

[@Sofia-hp2eg]

Little dragon truly has that effect. I first heard them at 17 when I discovered new me same us and that was life changing. Favorite band ever

[@ArtistVAV]

ABOUT TIME nothing but love and respect 🙏💛

[@yanimadeit]

I love then so deeply!!

[@jpoodle]

My favorites! Was looking forward to this one❤

[@brirome5102]

My fave band everrrr!!!!

[@monkeydoom681]

Just found this randomly. And now I'm in love with Little Dragon

[@KMO325]

What an amazing group, been listening to them for 10 years now.

[@renosance8941]

This is a great summer in NPR Music.

[@TUnit14]

This arrangement of ritual union is so gd beautiful with the piano

[@ee-wn1ys]

little dragon always comes out with something beautiful every time 💖 i remember being invited to see them back in 2011. didn't know who they were but it was love at first sight and i've been a fan and supporter ever since. looking forward to seeing you next month!

[@exquis_]

My beloved artists are here!!! Little dragon never disappoint 🔥 Yukimi voice surprises me every time 💗

[@RicoBanani]

One of my favourite bands! Hope to see them live one day

[@MrOtistetrax]

I don't think I'll ever get over how good the sound mix ALWAYS is on these Tiny Desk concerts. Major props to Josh.

[@Trogderpinator]

Yeeees! Been waiting for Yukimi and the boys to grace the Tinydesk for years! This is pure GOLD

[@ABCDuwachui]

This is one of the few Tinydesk’s that I’ve listened to multiple times!! I love this band!❤

[@ABCDuwachui]

Back again!🎉❤

[@lgp6344]

Legendary band!

[@yetidodger6650]

You don't often get to witness a group with such true passion for the music they create and perform, top stuff right here.

[@deezyproductionz]

This is my comfort music.

[@moniqueh92]

Ahh! I love Little Dragon! ❤Yukimi’s voice is everything!

[@leaodegaza7656]

One love,from Moçambique 🇲🇿 ❤

[@stphnglbrt]

That was a warm wavelength that keeps going - I adore you Little Dragon 🐉

[@guiliettek4233]

FINALLY!! 😭❤

[@rolandahugo6254]

THE MOST beautiful song!

[@gravityfreaksmusic]

Everything about this band is beautiful.

[@oMgxXiTzObAmA]

Yes lord

[@gonzaminator530]

I saw them live this year and was at the front row. Amazing experience I was about to cry at every second. Love Little Dragon forever

[@hailynewma9122]

Appreciate it to be surprised that pleasantly

[@Thecharmedonee]

Literally one of my favorite bands of all time they blend genres so effortlessly It’s like a masterclass every time they release Stormy weather Ritual union Scribbled paper smooth cat rider I can go on and on !

[@caiosantanna3657]

Love you! "Where you belong" warms my heart

[@sauceysinister7924]

There was so much comfort in the Little Dragon Tiny Desk in 2020 when the music let us feel connected. Having them in studio is the way life should be. Welcome to America, Little Dragon and thank you.

[@kesi3029]

I JUST had Where You Belong on my mind this week. how lovely !!!! ❤

[@rey1953]

Really enjoyed this concert. Love her voice, very soulful.

[@marcoalmarco]

loooooove the acoustic versions!

[@myindigoblues5796]

Ritual Union is my jam. Goosebumps all over and big grins 😁 Love this! Thank you so much for this. Little Dragon is my ultimate happy place 🥰🙏💗💖

[@Zman7534]

Little Dragon!!!!!!

[@danrung5524]

Consistently current and getting better and better . Yukimi’s style and the musicality of the band

[@Caalabuuu]

Where you belong brings me to my core, at times it reminds me of my old lover. But along the way we lose ourselves in the processes that life throws at us, thankful to have little dragon in my ears as they remind me that it’s alright. Hope everyone finds peace and live a little ✌🏼

[@afroandglasses]

I still remember the magical time I had when I saw them live a couple of years ago. Just beautiful ❤

[@andrewjokeke]

I feel better seeing little dragon. So many deep emotions with this group over the years. Loved seeing y’all live.

[@thecolibris]

Gotta appreciate Tiny Desk for giving us such quality music from all around the world🧡 As an upcoming European band one of our biggest goals is to play there

[@hipchainey1974]

drums & bass are locked in, nice

[@ReneOque]

Little Dragon is simply iconic! Love them so much!

[@NaomiBatman]

This band changed my life ♡

[@tesselate8nowait262]

Like a balm to my soul. I really needed this today. Thank you Tiny Desk. Thank you Little Dragon♥️🥹

[@mohauwamorena]

🔥🔥🔥

[@SteveG123]

A real treat on Tiny Desk.

[@zillanator100]

The only band I would globe trott for. A few times in South Africa, a show in Europe, waiting for the America's, Asia and the Carribean. Long live little dragon, long live,...

[@blodiaaa6990]

Been smitten with Yukumi for years

[@Ampersand00]

I would listen to Yukimi read a phone book.

[@snouri]

I melt every time I hear Yukimi hit those notes near the end of Where You Belong..

[@JavierCerecer]

Little dragon ❤

[@sgommerable]

Very cool to hear this crew stripped down

[@chih-kaw]

最高な曲たち、リトルドラゴン、タイニーデスク、ありがとう！

[@yemio1005]

I love themmmm 🥰😍 This was way too short 😢

[@muckemitsimon9636]

Always mindblowing these guys - we will fly over to london to see em ❤️

[@Popularloner86]

One of my favorite bands so happy to see this ❤

[@TheNivKo]

My favorite version of Ritual Union ever! So beautiful 🥰

[@Nct2019x]

They always look so happy performing. Love them and their music. 🥹

[@survives_shipwrecks6107]

One of my all time favorites, been waiting on this 👏🏾👏🏾👏🏾

[@DonPasquale_]

Love their new album

[@MrhollyWood167]

I'll forever love Little Dragon for the song hey did with Mac Miller , The Festival