Closely Watched Trains’ broad influences and instrumentation work their way into a uniquely unified sound that runs the spectrum from distorted garage rock to orchestral quiet folk. Incorporating violin, loop pedals, vibraphones, distorted guitars and a driving rhythm section, CWT cultivates sizzling, psychedelic folk rock rooted in sonic fields of love.
The band was founded by John Gage (drums, vibraphone, marimba, percussion) and Jon Schlesinger (vocals, guitar, banjo, lap steel) in early 2008 after the two were introduced at a Sonic Youth show. What began as an experimental recording project evolved into a full band with the addition of Taralyn Bulyk (violin) and John Leonard (bass, guitars, vocals). Since its inception, CWT has played shows with P.G. Six, Jesse Malin, The Furors, Mountain Movers, Ttotals, Lys Guillorn, and experimental rocksters MYTY KONKEROR. The band has also had the privilege of gracing a few festival stages.
The band released their eponymous debut through Twin Lakes Records to much critical acclaim. The New Haven Register proclaimed it the best local release of the year, describing it as “An amazing blend of ebullient folk and rock... a killer disc that features many songs perfect for a Wes Anderson film.” Music blog CTIndie called it “flawless,” while The Big Takeover described it as “fresh and inspired.”
Throughout 2012, the band has been playing shows and woodshedding while finishing their second record, which will be released in the coming months. Stay tuned.