Puffer

Now in their 6th year since their initial 2003 release, PUFFER has become a formidable metal/groove juggernaut who's originality has set them apart from all other Portland bands. The group's founder and singer, John Hughes, has a resume that stretches from Static-X, Love on Ice, to Aggrobatch, an infamous NW band in the early 90's. Sharing the stage with the likes of System of a Down, Snot, Incubus, Sweaty Nipples, and The Cherry Poppin' Daddies, it's no wonder his latest creative project s...

Now in their 6th year since their initial 2003 release, PUFFER has become a formidable metal/groove juggernaut who's originality has set them apart from all other Portland bands. The group's founder and singer, John Hughes, has a resume that stretches from Static-X, Love on Ice, to Aggrobatch, an infamous NW band in the early 90's. Sharing the stage with the likes of System of a Down, Snot, Incubus, Sweaty Nipples, and The Cherry Poppin' Daddies, it's no wonder his latest creative project should have a profound impact on what some consider metal. Providing the stability for a rock-onslaught, Joshua Beam's sound ranges from growling to groovy. Versatility comes with over twenty years experience,and influences ranging from Beefcake the Mighty of GWAR, to Victor Wooten and Stanley Clarke. Joshua's first serious band Lucid was a technical powerhouse, later playing for The Painted Hags, an eclectic group of musicians performing Celtic inspired metal. Joshua and John met when PUFFER and Lucid did shows together. The chemistry was apparent from the start Soon, thereafter, joined be rhythmical expressionist Evan Smelser. Evan's confidence and timing show's years of practice and influence from drummers Joey Jordison, Chris Adler and Matt Greiner. Armed with an arsenal of styles ranging from Reggae and Hip-Hop, to old school Funk and Jazz, Evan beefs up the pulse with frightening power and dexterity, giving all the songs an added threat. First releasing At Any Co$t (2003) tried to establish PUFFER as well seasoned band with the first-time recordings from their home studios. "I think I have this Cd in my car right now."." They have a rip’n sound that will please the metal head in all of us."."When you listen to PUFFER it’s not hard to imagine them playing the small stage at OZZ FEST or opening for Mudvayne, System Of A Down or any other big name band right now." - Noah Henderson, Crave Magazine From a new line-up came a new level of musicianship, and Isolate was recorded to represent the power-trio Evan, John and Josh. Farther reaching than the first release, in touch with the bands dark-side, pounding to the ground-grooves are pushed to extremes. This Cd shows that PUFFER has a lot more to prove. During a gig in L.A., Studio 9 was offered to PUFFER for a day a free recording. Three songs were recorded in twelve hours, which are intended to be released this fall, with accompanying video, making this PUFFER's third self-produced Cd with a bonus video. The main objective... to make a professionally tight and technical musical performance while maintaining an addictive energy and a feverish pace. The worst of the side-effects being sore feet and neck. The head bobbing may be intentional at first. If problem persists for more than four days after the show, go see your doctor immediately. Ask your venue if PUFFER is right for you.