low oriole

Posted on 25. Jan, 2010 by NakedCity in play

words > TROY R. WELLS

Things grow on you or you mature or something grows up. This all rings true for local outfit Low Oriole. The duo which is now a trio has been playing since 2003 and taking minimalist form in instrumentation and band members into a uniquely layered and non-uniform manifestation.

Founding members Jackson Graham, on drums, and Skyler Marshall, on guitar, are two friends who started out under the name Ghost of Graffiti, looking to do something unique with their music. They were inspired by the band Hella, and its ability to work as a duo but still construct compositions that were intense and formidably intriguing.

In 2006, they changed their name to Low Oriole, but kept the same minimalist formula, which continued to evolve in its song writing. Whereas some bands jam songs into existence, Graham and Marshall take sketches of songs and—whether it be a collision or coalescing of ideas—ride that wild horse into fruition or death.

You can call it math-rock, for its odd time signatures, or art-rock, for its not-for-the-unopened-minded construction of songs. One thing is for sure; Low Oriole is creating something, even if it’s a racket. All its working parts serve a purpose and can be simultaneously poignant and perplexing. The kind of music that would make Frank Zappa smile, if he were into punk.

With the addition of former Arms for Hands bassist Phil Ross this past year, Low Oriole is opening a new chapter in their sonic assault. 2010 will see a release of possible double-disc discography, tour, and creation of new material.

Trying to be unique is not unique, but there’s honor in the attempt, and sometimes success worth noting and seeing.

myspace.com/loworiole.