Welcome
Following their muse has made Aka Belle hard to categorize over the years - from bittersweet laments and folksy protest pop songs, to psychedelic heavy guitar driven feedback mixed with sultry, retro tropicalia jazz vibes, they’ve been anything but predictable.
With numerous line-up changes, their sound has evolved with each incarnation, allowing various members to lend of themselves in the overall sound, not to mention the eclectic mix of special guests (international jazz saxophonist Curtis Stigers; rock guitar wizard Brett Netson of Caustic Resin/Built to Spill/Earth; to name a few).
At the core, Aka Belle remains the same (Catherine Merrick, Sam Merrick), but now with new members who push this Boise band towards “Supergroup” status: Gina Gregerson (Dirt Fishermen) joined as backing vocalist and guitarist, and was followed closely by the addition of Troy Wright (Treepeople, Magnetics), on drums, and the ever smiling Anthony Mulparry (Green Zoo), on bass.
“Don’t be afraid of time or change - it’s constant-” Aka Belle sing in their 2021 release, “New Highs in Leadership;” clearly acknowledging and prophesying their own organic transformations as well as pushing their own boundaries.
"A powerful summoning of spectral energy - ceremonial in feel, the song touches on the historical persecution/legacy of inequity of women and those who practice plant medicine, but at its core, is a savage hymn of body sovereignty.
Backing vocals from Rollerdome's Gia Trotter and Trippy Hearts' Jen Sutkowski help make "Raise Power" a sonic force."
- Official release date: May 1st (streaming services, Bandcamp etc.)
- Also will be available on cassette (comes with download code) or purchase a limited edition handmade block print (made by Catherine) suitable for framing and receive download code
- Cassettes available at The Record Exchange
Limited edition Lino/wood block prints come with a download code for Raise Power. Handmade! Currently only available at shows
New T-shirts!
Photo credit: Christina Birkinbine
