instrument
Hartford, Connecticut, United States | INDIE
Music
Press
"Consisting of four musicians from disparate backgrounds, instrument makes mildly rootsy and mostly laid back pop that floats on simple instrumentation and superb melodies. Dig: American Analog Set, Coldplay, and mellow bands that are memorable for substance and not flash." -City Beat Cincinnati, OH - City Beat Cincinnati, OH
I drove the two and a half hours to Connecticut to see "instrument" play at Mohegan Sun in a Battle of the Bands. Out of 300 something bands, they made the top eight. Seriously, they’re amazing. The songs… I don’t really know how to describe them. Ben’s got this voice that is angelic ("Invincible") and also sounds like Kurt Cobain’s at the end of “Smells Like Teen Spirit” ("Letter"). Derek’s drumming is so understated, it reminds me of Bill Berry. He plays just what is necessary and it’s perfect. Aaron and Jonah fill in the gaps and take what was just good and make it incredible. If you ever get a chance to see them live, make sure you stay for the closer. “I Still Love You” showcases the foursome at their finest. - Tamara Nelson
Twangy and quiet, "instrument" is a unique newcomer amongst this year's cranked-to-11 Band Slam winners. Opting for rootsy rock instead of metal, this trio is starting to expand outside of Hartford and gain a grass roots fan following. -The Hartford Advocate - The Hartford Advocate Hartford, CT
Discography
Basement Recordings Released 2007
5 song EP Released 2008
Recently signed to CT indie label Sling Slang Records, and with their help, Instrument is currently in-studio working on a full length album. Listen to a sneak peek of an unmixed/unmastered version of their latest recording "Open Your Eyes" under their audio section.
Photos
Bio
Instrument is the product of one classically trained pianist; one kid hiding in his basement messing around with a battered two-string guitar; one marching band drummer; and one art school prodigy.
These four musicians from divergent backgrounds blend elements of rock, blues, and pop to unveil something unique and raw. Their sound is marked by ambient tones, driving rhythms, expansive choruses, and powerful vocals. With broad roots and fierce passions, their songs proudly defy genre. Influenced by such artists as Elvis, Talking Heads, Genesis, The Doors, Prince, and Rush, Instrument has been making soulful, rocking, unself-conscious music since 2005.
Based in Connecticut, Instrument has played venues across the U.S. In their home state, they’re often found at The Space, Mohegan Sun, Sully’s, Webster Theater, and Toad’s Place. They’ve played Boston’s famed Middle East, Grog & Tankard in Washington, DC., and Arlene’s Grocery, Crash Mansion, and CBGB’s in New York City. They’ve also been featured on the Warped Tour, BOMBFest, MEANYFest, and MPMF.
Their first EP was released in 2008 and is available for sale at http://www.cdbaby.com/cd/instrument. Their single “I Still Love You” won a Mike Pinder Top Ten Award. The Harford Advocate named them Connecticut’s Best Indie Band.
Recently signed to CT indie label Sling Slang Records, and with their help, Instrument is currently in-studio working on a full length album. Listen to a sneak peek of an unmixed/unmastered version of their latest recording "Open Your Eyes" under their audio section.
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