Rafting Records

Minneapolis-based alternative rock/craft pop quartet Southern Resident Killer Whales  “...makes an indelible mark...balancing quirky humor, clever slice-of-life observations, and raw emotion" (89.3 The Current). 

While many in the alt-rock scene favor a guitar-driven “wall of sound,” Southern Resident Killer Whales remain steadfastly driven by the craft of the song, applying their efforts at lifting the melodies, the harmonies, and the lyrics.

Musically, the ‘Whales’ catchy yet sophisticated acoustic-driven pop sounds something like a slightly offbeat Glen Hansard meets a slightly upbeat Morrissey, with songs that range from captivating chamber-pop arrangements to driving, harmony-laden indie rock. Lyrically, frontman and songwriter Dan Hylton bares all with a words that alternate between potent advocacy and those with an almost embarrassing level of intimacy; lyrics which Rift Magazine proclaims as “…fresh, smart, yet deeply personal and emotional words capturing life’s significant moments and its lessons taught.”

Formally-trained multi-instrumentalists Mark Anderson (bass, horns, mandolin) and Krista Johnson (drums, percussion, keys), along with versatile guitarist Brian Siegel, add a depth of training and theory to Hylton’s varied original compositions, and variety to live shows. 

Southern Resident Killer Whales is seen most frequently at Minneapolis area craft breweries, festivals, and fundraising events where their music - catchy, cool, and not over-the-top - is right at home in support of a lively, upbeat scene. They are currently recording their Wave Forms EP.