Seattle, Washington instrumental collective This is a Process of a Still Life writes songs with a focus on layered melodies and shifting tones. Formed in the spring of 2003 in Missoula,MT, current members Jason Ward (bass), David Totten (guitar, keys) , Scott Kennedy (guitar, keys), Baine Craft (percussion), Burke Jam (guitar, samples) strive for an organic, living feel in their sound and visual art. “They are the painters of the musical community, stretching song structures into an open canvas within which they paint their moods, emotions, thoughts, and feelings†(Delusions of Adequacy – August 23, 2004).
"This is a Process of a Still Life are starkly original, as they blend the finer elements of instrumental rock to create something they can call their own." (30Music.com) Their instrumental approach creates intricate layers of sound; music that both soothes and challenges. Drum and bass roles ground the music, providing a strong yet expansive foundation for the ethereal, entwining guitar melodies. Bells, electric piano and analog synths lend delicate shadings of texture and mood. "They are the painters of the musical community, stretching song structures into an open canvas within which they paint their moods, emotions, thoughts, and feelings." (Delusions of Adequacy) At times the music becomes almost chaotic, but the underlying harmonies remain, luring the listener back into pleasant insecurity.
"Fans of Mogwai, Tortoise or Maserati will find plenty to admire in this band's work, which reveals new depths and moods with each listen." (Eugene Weekly) This is Process of a Still Life strives for an organic, living feel both in their sound and their visual art. Tones and moods shift and evolve throughout the course of a song -- or within the songs in a set -- while still retaining unity and cohesion. Their music draws you in, providing a reassuring sense of peace without succumbing to saccharine platitudes or overplayed stereotypes. "Blissfully zen out with their moody and evocative instrumentation; it's blissful without boredom, and intellectual without pretension." (Three Imaginary Girls)
The band traveled to Haywire Studio in Portland, Oregon in the winter of 2003 to record their first album, which was released in April 2004. "Their self-titled debut is a delicious selection of explosive peaks and meandering pathways. At times it feels as if the world is crumbling; at other moments, it's twilight outside and everything is wonderful." (Indieville.com) After several tours, This is a Process of a Still Life returned to the studio, where they spent four long months working on their second album, "Light," released in the fall of 2005. "Bottom line here is, if you dig on expertly played guitar music that cuts right to the gorgeousness, add this CD to your constant rotation pile... They continue to amaze with the melodies they pull out of thin air." (The Big Takeover)
