Few suspected that when Eschellon (esh-a-lon) formed as an awkward bunch of gangly teenagers, that they would emerge as the most critically lauded band in the state of Connecticut. Hailed by press as “the best band in the state”, Eschellon has been likened to “The American Radiohead”; yet, the music is too accessible to be compared to their British counterparts. Before the music becomes too epic, it floats back down to earth with acoustic guitars, organs, synthetic undertones, whimsical lullabies, understated melodies, and the relieving feeling that “sense is just a lullaby.”

Too hopeful to be called angst-rock, and grooves too far in the pocket to be called Indie, Eschellon teeters between introspective subtlety, and passive-aggressive guitar explosions. The band draws their influences from Brit-pop/rock wit and sensibility, the raucous guitar-work of the New York-underground, the soundscapes of Iceland, and New England sensitivity - giving each song its own musical aura.

In 2004, Eschellon received national radio play on XM Radio with songs from their sophomore release, The Blockade EP. Just days after the band was featured on XM Radio 52 as “Band of the Week”, two songs from the EP topped the charts at the #1 and #2 slots – making Eschellon the most requested unsigned band in the US. The band has also received commercial radio play on CT’s 104.1 and 99.1, and Atlanta’s 96.1.

Recently, Eschellon spent three months to complete their third self-released title, The History of Fire. Released in October of 2004, the 11-track LP has already been reviewed as the band’s most impressive, and mature release to date.

Through their spontaneous and unpredictable live shows, the band continues to grow with the support of grassroots efforts, and close relationships with its fan-base. Touring the Northeast for the past three years, the band has played notable venues such as Toad’s Place, The Knitting Factory, Luna Lounge, Elbow Room, and Great Scott - sharing bills with V.A.S.T., The Breakfast, Mighty Purple, Jen Durkin, Oh My God!, and the New Deal. In 2002, the band showcased for Universal Records, and plans on signing with a label in the future in order to expand national promotion and recognition.