Baleine is a Portland-based group that formed in the summer of 2007 when the
remaining members of Miles Before joined up to write music with singer/bassist,
Zach Harrsion who recently relocated from Pennsylvania. From the start, ideas
began emerging quickly as the members drew upon their dynamic influences
(Fugazi, Juno, Christie Front Drive, The Sea and Cake) to craft a familiar yet
unique sound that was all their own. After three months, enough songs were in
place to begin playing shows and parties around the Portland area.
All music is co-written by the collective members of the group (Tom Mooney and
David Klatt- guitars, Craig Verity - drums) with vocal and lyric duties handled by
Zach. While difficult to categorize, the band’s sound can be described as indie
rock, with punk, yet emotive qualities. Songs that begin slow and quiet often
evolve into a cacophony of turbulent sounds. Driving bass and heavy drums
provide the rhythm section while dual guitars intertwine to permit powerful
soundscapes. The songs are literally and metaphorically expressed as Zach
references life experiences of personal growth, struggle and change. These and
many other poignant themes are explored throughout Baliene’s music.
Currently, the band is finalizing artwork and mastering for their first release, a six song
EP on Portland label, Steelhead Records. These songs were recorded in early
2008 by Tom Mooney and mastered by Rob Oberdorfer (The Standard, Loch
Lomond, Timecat). Baleine is looking forward to future shows, writing new
material and general good times as they continue to embark upon new territory,
both lyrically and musically.
