In many ways, the fourth album by Lincoln’s Beard will be the band’s first. Titled “Honorary Sibling,” it’s the first record with the band’s new members, guitarist Aram Arslanian and drummer Abe Holderman. It’s also the first with a big record release concert, set for this week at the Doug Fir Lounge in Portland.
“I’m pretty excited to release to it to the masses. This is the first item it feels like there will be masses,” said bassist Dwayne Spence. Spence and Kristopher Chrisopulos, the band’s lead vocalist and guitarist, have been playing venues around the Northwest since 2006.
“Honorary Siblings” was recorded at the Toadhouse in Portland and guitarist Arslanian’s Kingsly Garden Music Studios. Arslanian has brought a wealth of recording and technical skill to the group.
“We couldn’t have gotten luckier, we just found him in the neighborhood. He just impresses me every time,” Spence said. “(Arslanian) acts as our Yoda of sorts in a lot of things.”
Spence and Chrisopulos practically found Arslanian in their backyard. All three band members live in the Shumway neighborhood.
The album’s look and feel was brought to life by Vancouver artist Brian Ripp.
“I was actually floored by the artwork on this album because I’ve seen a lot of his art, I’ve never seen anything like this,” said Spence.
“Honorary Siblings” is characterized by its warm roots-rock sounds and blue-collar rhythms, led by Chrisopulos’ distinctive, growling voice.
“No matter how far we go forwards or backwards, Krist’s voice tends to bring us to together. We’ve evolved in instruments, but I think the overall folk sound has sustained itself,” Spence said.
Most of the songs were written by Chrisopulos, who needed to express “what it means to miss someone, then have them back, then miss them again,” Spence said.
Two of the songs — “Victim” and “Hero” — were written by drummer Holderman before he joined the band. “For me, they are the two of the most chilling, heart-warming songs (on the album.) He’s very good at writing good, simple, poignant lyrics that just kind stick you right there,” Spence said.
Lincoln’s Beard will give a radio interview and studio performance at 5 p.m. today on KZME 107.1 FM, which will also re-air on the station at 8 a.m. Tuesday. Limited prereleases of “Honorary Sibling” will be available at Mon Ami Coffee, 1906 Main St., and at Portland record stores after Thursday, then online in March.
Catch the Lincoln’s Beard record release concert at 9 p.m. Thursday at the Doug Fir Lounge, 830 E. Burnside St., Portland. Tickets are $8 for those 21 and older. Visit lincolnsbeard.com.
— Ashley Swanson
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