Artist of the Week: Seattle’s Folk-Rock Band Jessie Thoreson & The Crown Fire
Jessie Thoreson & The Crown Fire, a folk-rock band based in Seattle, comprises Jessie Thoreson on lead vocals and guitar, Pete Bush on upright bass, Paul Rhoads on drums, and Erik Anders on electric guitar and keys. Their upcoming album, “Return To The Ground,” set for release on April 10, delves into themes of decay, renewal, and transformation encapsulated in a grounded yet exploratory folk-rock sound.
Thoreson began writing songs at the age of 13 during guitar lessons at Fremont Music School, where her teacher encouraged her to creatively cover artists and develop her songwriting skills. Performing in Bellingham, WA, at various venues, including coffee shops and farmers’ markets, Thoreson honed her craft while attending Western Washington University. Her passion for songwriting blossomed, finding inspiration during her time working in National Parks and Forests in the Pacific Northwest.
Songs often come to Thoreson during long periods of introspection while hiking alone through nature. Her experiences working in various wilderness settings, like the Olympic Peninsula and North Cascades National Park, sparked lyrics and melodies that eventually formed the foundation of her music. Thoreson values intriguing cadences and unexpected rhyme schemes in her songwriting, enjoying the challenge of transforming and complicating phrases to enhance meaning.
The artistic process for The Crown Fire involves collaborative efforts among band members, building upon each other’s musical styles and influences. The band’s approach to songwriting has evolved over the years, culminating in the recording of “Return To The Ground,” their latest album. Embracing a more collaborative approach in the studio, the band explored new sonic directions, drawing inspiration from artists like Madison Cunningham, Fiona Apple, FINOM, St. Vincent, and Saya Gray.
Transitioning from solo songwriting to a full band dynamic, The Crown Fire seamlessly blends folk-rock with elements of pop, country, and jazz. “Return To The Ground” delves into themes of decay, renewal, and rebirth, using natural and elemental metaphors to explore these cycles. One of the standout tracks, “Tides,” encapsulates the album’s central themes with its introspective lyrics and driving instrumentation, exploring the concept of impermanence in life through the metaphor of ocean tides.
As The Crown Fire continues to push musical boundaries and explore new sonic territories, their latest album promises to offer listeners a rich tapestry of sound that delves into the complexities of existence. With their unique blend of folk-rock and creative lyricism, Jessie Thoreson & The Crown Fire are set to captivate audiences with their insightful storytelling and dynamic musical arrangements.