Eclectic Rock? Progressive Art Rock? Electronica-Induced Power Pop? Attempts to categorize Madison-based The Dorothy Heralds seem intriguing at best. For, if you've seen this ensemble live, you know that the experience is one that defies conventional expectation. The Dorothy Heralds mesh Matt Nelson's quirky, experimental electric guitar parts with Kevin Lozada's keyboard lines that stretch anywhere from ambient and subtle to intensely melodic and driving. Put these parts on top of the pounce-like, athletic bass leanings of Gary Chin, and an intricate instrumental bed unfolds. Vocalist Katy Rykken rounds out the sound with her rich mezzo-soprano voice that flows easily from airy and ethereal to brassy and bold. Each with a diverse array of influences and experiences, members of The Dorothy Heralds come together to create lilting melodies that thread together their unique package of sound.
Gary Chin is responsible for the Dorothy brainchild, vowing in 1999 to start a project all his own--one over which he had creative license and the arena to experiment and make new. He sold his vision to long-time friend Kevin Lozada, and the two set out to form a band. The pair ran across Katy Rykken, an eager, bright-eyed UW sophomore, and after an audition, she was on board. After several line-up changes over the course of 2 years, the band found their niche with guitarist Matt Nelson, whose creative approach to guitar playing was the final touch the band needed.
The band's first full-length album, Projections, was recorded at DNA Studios in Madison in 2003. For this album, the band practiced genre-jumping, covering everything from progressive rock to funk to noise to ambient folk. Since that time, the band has focused its sound, moving in the vein of Massive Attack meets Zero 7. Throw in a splash of Bjork, a touch of Peter Gabriel, and a hint of Blondie, and you have The Dorothy Heralds. In the mix is also a touch of world music--Latin beats mixed intricately with drum and bass. Working on their sophomore album, the band continues to develop and hone their sound, skills, and fanbase, playing out as often as possible and supporting the local music scene along the way.
If you like the songs above, there's even more amazing stuff on Projections. You can purchase Projections on:
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