Risley

Portland’s Risley (Riz – Lee) is a four piece band that can be described as dreamy and nostalgic Indie Rock with a twist of 80s 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.

Their new album, ‘Umbra Penumbra’, is slated for release on January 24^th, 2025 and will be celebrated with an album release show at Mississippi Studios, with guests, Mini Blinds and The Fourth Wall on January, 23rd. The record also notably features a guest appearance on the song ‘Walls’ by Dave Abbruzzese (Pearl Jam) on drums.

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 bands like Genders, Sunbathe and Typhoon joining him throughout the album’s 22 tracks.

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, Risley’s 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 2021 with a live streamed performance at the historic Crystal Ballroom.