Now Hear This: Sky Dwellers

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Now Hear This: Sky Dwellers

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Now Hear This: Sky Dwellers

Picture it: a small cabin filled with drums, guitars and one huge speaker; on the bed is a computer with all the band’s recording equipment except a power cord. The band? The Sky Dwellers—their name comes from what the Alaska Natives called the Aurora Borealis. They have been together since October of last year, although they didn’t consider themselves a band until Jace, the drummer, joined. There is a sincere camaraderie amongst them, and it definitely shows on stage.

Their music comes from a place that is genuine. Their sincere love for the music shines through, especially in “Breathe Part 1,” also known as “Kade’s Epic,” which happens to be Kade’s favorite song. All the band members have a favorite: Andrew’s is “Goner,” while Jace’s is “When the Whiskey Hit Me.”

One of the best parts about the band is that there is not just one lyricist. The whole band writes—to each his own notebook and to each his own song. That’s one of the greatest things about The Sky Dwellers: they are influenced by each other and themselves. As their Myspace says, “A general collaberation (sic) of the artistic endevors (sic) of five young individuals with something one may call ‘musical talent.’” Each band member is influenced by different music, from Sublime to Grateful Dead, Bob Dylan to the Foo Fighters.

Their diverse tastes show in their music. They are a rock group according to my definition, but they classify themselves as a psychedelic band. Whatever their classification, they are great. My favorite songs of theirs are “Breathe Part 1” and “Apostrophe.” Both of those songs really made me tap my feet; I could feel the drums echoing through the floor, and the guitar solos were just amazing. It is great running music to get pumped up to or just something to put on in general when a rock and roll mood hits.

Their songs present a story, have a beginning, middle and end. They leave you wanting more, in a good way. My previous article was centered on death, but I want to focus more on how music can be used to celebrate life. Each song has its own story to relate to the listener. “Breathe Part 1” gave me the ability to breathe. I felt happier after listening to it.

They don’t see themselves playing at Red Rocks in Colorado or at Madison Square Garden. Jace said they should aim low, but I disagree. I can see them playing there and in many other venues. They’re all about playing anywhere they can get a gig and are going to play again Feb. 20. Other gigs are posted on their website: www.skydwellers.net along with information about the band members: Jace, Joe, Kory, Andrew and Kade. All in all, I give them 4 and a half stars out of 5.

Rating: 4.5/5 stars

DJ M Playlist of the Week:

1. No Quarter- Led Zeppelin
2. Gives You Hell- All-American Rejects
3. Miami- Will Smith
4. Starlight- Muse
5. Uncle John’s Band- Grateful Dead

If you are interested in this week’s artist and other featured artists tune into 91.5 FM KSUA on Mondays from 8 -10 a.m. for Now Hear This with DJ M and check out Marissa Davis’ blog at http://nowhearthis915.blogspot.com