The Helio Sequence, an Invigorating Folk Pop Experience [Tonight]

The Helio Sequence is a lovely balance of enchanting and inspiring musical variety. Birthed in a Portland suburb in 1999, the group consists of Brandon Summers contributing vocals and guitar and Benjamin Weikel on keyboards and drums. The indie power-rock outfit has got it pretty well made in the music biz. But things weren't always so sweet. Following two epic, self-produced albums on Portland’s Cavity Search and six months of touring with major indie bands, Summers damaged his vocal chords and was unable to sing. After losing his voice, he was still optimistic for awhile until a doctor forbade him to sing for two months. Then it dawned on him—what will I do if I lose my voice permanently? After a fit of increased whiskey consumption, Summers decided to teach himself how to sing again. He started doing vocal exercises and vowed to start practice at 9 am each day. (gasp!) His dedication to reformation worked, and the reward was the production of Keep Your Eyes Ahead, a vitalizing departure from the past.

With more precision than ever, The Helio Sequence will perform tonight at Mohawk, giving us maypole of weaving folk and pop rhythms. Be sure to pay special notice to the motivating hymn, "Hallelujah," which is sure to leave you wholly cleansed and refreshed. Other tracks vary, most with a minimalist country flavor. A band who can turn a near musical career tragedy into a path of growth is worth seeing in our book. Dri, a snazzy easy listening group from Kansas will open along with Low Line Caller.

The Helio Sequence [myspace]
Dri[myspace]
Low Line Caller [myspace]

Editor's note: We've corrected the mix-up our readers pointed out regarding the supporting act Dri.