The Aislers Set
The Aislers Set: A Journey Through Melody and Discord
The Aislers Set, an enigmatic indie rock band from New York City, emerged in the early 1990s with an eclectic sound that defied easy categorization. Their music, a fusion of intricate melodies, haunting harmonies, and unconventional rhythms, captivated audiences while simultaneously courting controversy.
Members and Formation
The band's core members were Amy Linton (vocals, guitar), P.W. Long (bass, vocals), and Michael Lerner (drums). Their unique musical chemistry stemmed from their diverse backgrounds: Linton had classical training, Long was a proficient jazz bassist, and Lerner possessed an experimental and improvisational style.
Challenging Conventions
From their inception, The Aislers Set challenged musical norms. Their songs often lacked traditional verse-chorus structures, instead opting for a free-form narrative style. Their lyrics, penned primarily by Linton, were introspective and poetic, delving into themes of love, loss, and the absurdity of modern life.
Controversy and Acclaim
Their unique sound and unconventional approach sparked both admiration and criticism. Some critics derided their music as pretentious and inaccessible, while others hailed their originality and emotional depth. The band's 1996 album, "Lowlands," garnered significant critical acclaim and cemented their status as an influential force in the indie rock scene.
"Alicia's Song": A Cultural Touchstone
Among their most enduring songs is "Alicia's Song," a haunting and ethereal ballad that became a cult classic. Its lyrics, which chronicle a bittersweet love affair, resonated with countless listeners and have been covered by artists such as Aimee Mann and Rufus Wainwright.
Discography
Over the course of their career, The Aislers Set released a series of acclaimed albums:
* "The Aislers Set" (1994)
* "Lowlands" (1996)
* "Terrible Things" (1998)
* "The Last Match" (2001)
* "All the Essential Aislers Set" (2005)
Hiatus and Reunion
The band went on hiatus in 2001, with Linton pursuing a solo career. However, in 2018, they announced a reunion tour and the release of a new EP, "The Answer Is Yes."
Legacy
The Aislers Set's legacy as one of the most innovative and enigmatic bands of their era remains intact. Their music continues to inspire and challenge listeners, defying easy categorization and leaving an enduring imprint on the indie rock landscape.
The Aislers Set, an enigmatic indie rock band from New York City, emerged in the early 1990s with an eclectic sound that defied easy categorization. Their music, a fusion of intricate melodies, haunting harmonies, and unconventional rhythms, captivated audiences while simultaneously courting controversy.
Members and Formation
The band's core members were Amy Linton (vocals, guitar), P.W. Long (bass, vocals), and Michael Lerner (drums). Their unique musical chemistry stemmed from their diverse backgrounds: Linton had classical training, Long was a proficient jazz bassist, and Lerner possessed an experimental and improvisational style.
Challenging Conventions
From their inception, The Aislers Set challenged musical norms. Their songs often lacked traditional verse-chorus structures, instead opting for a free-form narrative style. Their lyrics, penned primarily by Linton, were introspective and poetic, delving into themes of love, loss, and the absurdity of modern life.
Controversy and Acclaim
Their unique sound and unconventional approach sparked both admiration and criticism. Some critics derided their music as pretentious and inaccessible, while others hailed their originality and emotional depth. The band's 1996 album, "Lowlands," garnered significant critical acclaim and cemented their status as an influential force in the indie rock scene.
"Alicia's Song": A Cultural Touchstone
Among their most enduring songs is "Alicia's Song," a haunting and ethereal ballad that became a cult classic. Its lyrics, which chronicle a bittersweet love affair, resonated with countless listeners and have been covered by artists such as Aimee Mann and Rufus Wainwright.
Discography
Over the course of their career, The Aislers Set released a series of acclaimed albums:
* "The Aislers Set" (1994)
* "Lowlands" (1996)
* "Terrible Things" (1998)
* "The Last Match" (2001)
* "All the Essential Aislers Set" (2005)
Hiatus and Reunion
The band went on hiatus in 2001, with Linton pursuing a solo career. However, in 2018, they announced a reunion tour and the release of a new EP, "The Answer Is Yes."
Legacy
The Aislers Set's legacy as one of the most innovative and enigmatic bands of their era remains intact. Their music continues to inspire and challenge listeners, defying easy categorization and leaving an enduring imprint on the indie rock landscape.