Musician Stoner Control finds introspective tone on latest album

“The Bar Near Where Jeff Lives” is the opening track on Stoner Control’s latest album, “The Bottom of a Hill You Know,” resonating with anyone who has deep roots in a particular place. As a reflection of the Portland power-pop band’s journey since its formation in 2013, the album serves as a tribute to close friends who have moved away and neighborhood establishments that have shuttered. Despite carrying the label of an “accidental gentrification song,” vocalist and guitarist Charley Williams emphasizes a broader message of cherishing the present, given the rapid transformations that surround us.

Portland’s music landscape has witnessed significant shifts, especially in the wake of COVID-19. “The Bottom of a Hill You Know,” set for release this Friday, marks Stoner Control’s first post-pandemic album, capturing a music scene that has undergone both devastation and revival. Embracing the band’s trademark loud, hooky rock sound, the post-pandemic era has welcomed Stoner Control’s music with open arms, rooted in the band’s consistent commitment to a sturdy musical identity.

There has been an evolution in Stoner Control’s musical style over the years, from their early days of punk-inspired tunes to a more straightforward rock sound. The band’s origins trace back to 2006, with the formation of a duo called the Greencarts by bassist Sam Greenspan and drummer Michael Cathcart during the era when two-piece bands were in vogue.

“The Bottom of a Hill You Know” features a selection of songs carefully curated from a vast collection of post-COVID compositions. With 11 tracks, the album stands out as a departure from the band’s usual shorter releases, embodying a sense of musical sprawl. Williams acknowledges the surplus of material, noting that some songs found their way into interim EPs recorded to clear space for newer creations.

While the album’s song selection wasn’t guided by a specific theme, a recurring motif emerges – the unpredictable nature of living in a constantly evolving environment. The closure of Echo Echo, the studio where “The Bar Near Where Jeff Lives” was recorded, serves as a poignant example of the fleeting nature of cherished spaces. Williams underscores the importance of valuing these locales, recognizing the impermanence that surrounds us.

Stoner Control’s album release show, featuring Shawna Pair and Stomach Sleeper at Swan Dive on December 20, encapsulates the essence of their music – a blend of nostalgia, resilience, and a firm anchor in the ever-changing landscape of Portland’s music scene. The band’s journey, marked by sonic exploration and introspective songwriting, culminates in an album that not only pays tribute to the past but also serves as a testament to the enduring spirit of their music.