Risley
Portland's Risley (Riz - Lee) is a four piece band that blends American Indie Rock with an 80s and 90s British influence. A web of interlaced dreamy guitar melodies often sit atop a driving rhythm section to stage the back drop for soaring vocals and thoughtful lyrics.
Named after a cat, Risley was formed in 2016 by Michael Deresh. Risley's self-titled debut, ranged widely in style and personnel. It featured 12 friends from band's like Genders, Sunbathe and Typhoon joining him throughout the album's 22 tracks.
Singer/Guitarist Michael Deresh has been a fixture of the Portland music community for ages. He was one of the founding members of PDXPOPNOW! From 2002-2010, his band Tea for Julie opened for acts like The Lemonheads, Menomena, Snow Patrol, Evan Dando, Matt Pond PA, The Ocean Blue and The Thermals. Their two albums were in heavy rotation on Seattle's KEXP and Portland's KNRK.
Over the last few years, the lineup and sound settled in and gained focus as they really gelled as a band. Jaime Hazerian relocated from LA where she'd been playing guitar in the post rock band ‘Arms for Tripoli' and touring with Pinback. She and Michael were a natural fit, musically finishing each other's sentences and collaborating prolifically. Andrew Meininger (Wampire, Bed) brought a real dynamic, nuanced and energetic pulse on drums to the often dreamy vibe. Tyler Rachal took over bass, delivering stalwart and sticky hooks that provide foundation to the many interwoven guitars.
Their sophomore release, ‘Meantime Fades' was released in July of 2021 with a live streamed performance at the historic Crystal Ballroom. The next full length album, ‘Umbra Penumbra', is slated for release in early 2025 and features a guest appearance by former Pearl Jam drummer, Dave Abbruzzese.
Risley has been a regular player in the local music scene, playing venues all over Portland, ranging from The Old Church to the Doug Fir, Mississippi Studios to Rontoms.