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Biography
Led by Rob Lowe (guitar, piano, banjo) and Michael Muller (guitar, bass), the ensemble came together in 2006, adding Aisha Burns (violin), Nicole Kern (cello) and Travis Chapman (double bass) to the ensemble. A year later, Balmorhea had hit the studio and created their self-titled debut album, independently releasing the record.
Joining Western Vinyl, their second effort, “Rivers Arms,” arrived in 2008, continuing their display of finely restrained, delicately layered work. A busy year, 2009 saw their third album, “All Is Wild, All Is Silent” released, as well as a remix album, creatively reimagining their tracks.
The band then embarked on an extensive touring schedule in support of their album, that saw them travel across the US and Europe, appearing on stage with Tortoise, Thurston Moore, Fleet Foxes, Sharon Van Etten and many other well-known names. They were also regularly performers at many Southwest music festivals, including SXSW Festival, Austin City Limits, Fun Fun Fun Fest and Hopscotch Festival. Despite being busy touring, they still found time to record their fourth album, “Constellations” in 2010. Further releases followed, with “Candor/Clamor” and the live album, “life at Saint-Elisabethkerk,” as well as their fifth full length, 2012’s “Stranger” and 2014’s “HEIR EP.”
Live reviews
It’s not often that you see a post-rock minimalist ensemble these days, but then you realize that Balmorhea exists and think to yourself that more of these groups should exist. Currently consisting of Rob Lowe (guitar, piano, melodica, banjo), Michael Muller (guitar, banjo, piano), Aisha Burns (violin, vocals), Dylan Rieck (cello), Travis Chapman (double bass), and Kendall Clark (drums, marimba), the group has played a wide array of shows from SXSW and Austin City Limits Festival. Additionally, the group has also gained a lot of attention from NPR.
It really is a treat to see the sextuplet play on stage together. There is such a dying appreciation of music that is influenced by classical artist besides the stuffy orchestra. Balmorhea makes music that appeals to such a wide array of people, which is why they have been playing popular festivals. The shows are highly energetic, and very fun to watch, which is probably a contributing factor as to why it’s so well accepted by the festival crowds. There are multiple instrument changes by all artists, and you never question their amazing talent. The best part about their shows, however, is the sheer love that they, as well as the crowd, gets from the music that is being expressed.
Ellinoinsta
Since 2008, when I saw them at the first time (Kontenerart in Poznan/Poland) they took my heart. Their music is so beautiful and emotional. Balmorhea helped me in tuff times and makes me even more happy in good times... I've been waiting 8 years for this moment. To hear them live again. It was incredible and amazing feeling to hear and see them on the stage. Thank You for your music, for your emotions and great power!!!! I love You with all my heart Balmorhea!! I can't wait to see You again, and I'm sure I will :)
pawel-rogalinski
Balmorhea brings a variety of instruments (violin, stand-up bass, vibraphone, viola) alongside the usual post-rock setup and plays a delicate and varied set. In 2017 their shows are able to cover all of the different sounds of their career with an ease and calmness more reminiscent of classical shows than post-rock. Beautiful & subtle shows like this should not be missed - I just hope your local venues have the acoustics and a proper sound guy to let them flourish.
DustbinK
