An Interview with Ryan Sollee of The Builders and The Butchers – February 2026
The Builders and The Butchers, a folk-rock band from Portland, have been making music for over 20 years. Formed in 2005, the band consists of Ryan Sollee on vocals and guitar, along with Ray Rude on drums and keyboards, Paul Seely on guitar and vocals, Willy Kunkle on bass, guitar, vocals, and percussion, Justin Baier on drums, backup vocals, and percussion, and Harvey Tumbleson on mandolin, banjo, guitar, vocals, and percussion. Over the years, they have built a dedicated fan base by playing countless shows in and around Portland, becoming known for their electrifying live performances.
Their latest release, “No Tomorrow,” marks their 7th full-length record. According to Ryan Sollee, the album showcases a new level of intricacy in guitar and string work, along with increased dynamics. Unlike their previous records, “No Tomorrow” offers a more subtle approach with hidden laughs and comments that add a personal touch to the music. Listening closely to the album reveals the band’s dedication and passion for their craft.
Ryan Sollee traces his musical aspirations back to childhood, with memories of imitating Elvis at the grocery store when he was only 4 years old. Growing up in Alaska, he had limited exposure to live music until bands like Fugazi and The Jesus Lizard made their way up north, leaving a lasting impact on him. Witnessing these live performances was transformative and inspired him to pursue a career in music.
When asked about dream collaborators, Ryan mentions Tom Waits for his unique ability to reinvent songs in a captivating manner. Outside of music, Ryan finds solace in fishing, which he describes as a meditative experience. Despite the band’s label as apocalyptic folk, Ryan acknowledges the tendency of reviewers to mislabel them as a bluegrass band due to the presence of a mandolin, a misconception he finds cringe-worthy.
In their downtime, the band members share cooking duties, with Ryan taking charge of meals like fried chicken and breakfast burritos. While on tour, they enjoy each other’s company, with Harvey often leading impromptu jam sessions with old 90s classics. Reflecting on their career, Ryan recalls missteps such as challenging tour experiences and regrettable creative decisions during recording sessions. Looking back, he wishes for a more harmonious tour partnership and revisits the recording of their 3rd album with a critical eye.
Contemplating a future beyond music, Ryan expresses a desire to remain involved in the industry, perhaps by booking shows for other bands. He also considers returning to his previous career as a fish biologist, highlighting his diverse interests and career path. As a musician, Ryan cherishes the opportunity to connect with audiences and explore new places, emphasizing the camaraderie and shared experiences with his bandmates.
Overall, The Builders and The Butchers continue to evolve creatively, balancing heartfelt songwriting with intricate instrumentation. Their resilience and dedication to their craft have solidified their status as a mainstay in the Portland music scene and beyond.