Midlake

Denton, Texas rock band Midlake started off as a funk/jazz collective inspired by Herbie Hancock. Their sound has mutated over time, leaning towards an experimental indie sound inspired by Radiohead and Grandaddy before switching gears again to a throwback, 1970s sound reminiscent of bands like Crosby, Stills & Nash.

Fast Facts:

1. Formed in 1999
2. Members: Tim Smith, McKenzie Smith, Paul Alexander, Eric Nichelson, Eric Puildo
3. Featured on The Chemical Brothers song "The Pills Won't Help You Now"
4. Video for "Balloon Maker" was directed by Jason Lee

Albums

1. Bamnan and Silvercork (2004)
2. The Trials of Van Occupanther (2006)
3. The Courage of Others (2008)

Career Overview

Midlake formed in 1999 at the Unviersity of North Texas under the name The Cornbread All-Stars, and played largely jazz music.

Soon enough, the former jazz students moved away from their initial sound and began to write more contemporary-sounding indie rock songs. By the time they recorded their debut album, 2004's Bamnan and Silvercork, in a home studio in Denton, Texas, Midlake's sound had progressed into an almost psychedelic project, influenced by the band's occasional tourmates, The Flaming Lips.

The band's follow-up, 2006's The Trials of Van Occupanther, mixed up their sound again, harkening back to the classic rock sounds of bands like Jethro Tull, whom songwriter Tim Smith has cited as a major influence. A third album is anticipated for 2008, tentatively titled The Courage of Others.

Categories