Ralph Myerz & Jack Herren Band

Widely known for their sonic playfulness, Norway’s Ralph Myerz & the Jack Herren Band are masters of downtempo. They got together informally in 1997 when Bergen DJ Erlend Sellevold (who performs as Ralph Myerz) was asked to perform at a local festival. Joined by two friends – percussionist Thomas Lonnheim and drummer Tarjei Strøm – the result was such a dreamily perfect summer-daze groove that they stayed together as a trio, later adding guitarist/bassist Marius Larsen. A limited-release album that somehow ended up as a soundtrack to a VW Passat commercial, leading to a big contract with Emperor Norton Records in L.A.; the result was two best-selling records, screaming fans and an international touring schedule. Influenced by Kiss and Metallica as much as Morricone soundtracks, Kraftwerk, George Clinton and Jamaica dub, these “boys of Bergen” are the original Big Chill.
“. . . comes over like Radiohead actually enjoying themselves.” –4/5 Update Magazine