Local Artist Rhododendron Drops Second Album
Rhodie season has arrived in Portland, and it’s not just the flowers that are flourishing. Local band Rhododendron recently released their highly anticipated second album, Ascent Effort. The album consists of five tracks totaling 40 minutes, showcasing the trio’s impressive musical evolution over the past five years since their 2021 debut.
Comprising Gage Walker on bass, Noah Mortola on drums, and Ezra Chong on guitar and vocals, Rhododendron’s music exists in a unique space between post-hardcore, noisy math rock, and whatever experimental sounds they stumble upon that day. Mortola acknowledges that their music may be challenging for some listeners, requiring a discerning ear and an acquired taste.
The band first came together in 2018 at School of Rock Portland before finding their place in the city’s DIY, all-ages music scene. With an upcoming 10-date tour, including an album release show at the Aladdin Theater on May 30, Mortola expresses enthusiasm for being able to play larger venues while still maintaining the DIY ethos that is at the core of their music.
Rhododendron credits much of their growth to Portland’s DIY community and their early connections with local bands such as Grolixes and Sea Moss, who shared the same commitment to sonic experimentation within the noise scene.
Reflecting on their musical journey, Mortola and Walker reminisce about pivotal moments like their first show at Black Water in 2019 and a West Coast tour in 2023, subsidized by the nonprofit Friends of Noise. These experiences helped shape their sound and identity as a band.
When comparing their first album, Protozoan Battle Hymns, to Ascent Effort, the band emphasizes the cohesive and intentional nature of their latest work. The recording process for the new album involved a larger creative team, contributing to a more refined and expansive sound that transcends traditional genre boundaries.
Ascent Effort showcases Rhododendron’s meticulous attention to detail and thoughtful approach to musical progression. The band’s dedication to honing their sound is evident in the dynamic songwriting and intricate arrangements that define the album’s unique sound.
Moving forward, Rhododendron is focused on translating the intricacies of their recorded work into their live performances. Balancing technical precision with spontaneous energy on stage poses a creative challenge that the band is eager to explore.
The final track of Ascent Effort, “Within Crippling Light,” encapsulates Rhododendron’s experimental universe in a 13-minute sonic journey. The sprawling composition builds to a series of explosive climaxes, embodying the band’s fearless and evocative musical vision.
Despite their growth and success, Rhododendron remains rooted in their DIY ethos and creative independence. As they continue to push boundaries and challenge musical conventions, the band remains true to their distinctive sound and unwavering artistic vision.