Secrets in the Salt
June 8, 2008
The Towne Lounge is in a former mausoleum sitting at 714 S.W. 20th & Burnside. It is quietly becoming a destination spot to hear local indie music talent. It has a cozy atmosphere and its design will ensure a very intimate experience.
On May 11, this writer had the privilege of watching a group called Secrets in the Salt.
The group’s name relates to identification with the working class, as in the "Salt of the Earth."
The group’s myspace site defines both secret and salt.
The band members include Neil Loehlein, guitarist (http://www.myspace.com/papdizzle1979); Grant Burgess, voice and guitar (http://www.myspace.com/molokosynthetic); Ty Phelps, drums (http://www.habitat.org/); Daniel Austin, bass (http://www.myspace.com/danielmartinaustin).
Secrets in the Salt’s most popular songs are Stale Geometry and Sparrow Cavity. The bands influences include groups such as Neutral Milk Hotel, The Shins, Bright Eyes, The Velvet Underground, Blondie, Yeah Yeah Yeahs, The Kinks, Talking Heads.
Admittedly, like any group, they aspire to cult status. Frankly, it is this writer’s opinion that if cult status is not a motivation for any musician, they should stick with expressing themselves only in the shower (with windows and door closed).
The group has played together for about a year two or three times a month. Secrets in the Salt particularly enjoy playing venues like the Ash Street Saloon in downtown Portland. They have a record label called Hand-Me-Down Sounds.
See their myspace page (www.myspace.com/secretsinthesalt) for a schedule of future appearances. Their next performance Is June 11 at the Tonic Lounge w/ Pete Bush and Bright Eyes.