Black Tangerine

Black Tangerine’s aesthetic of rock in its purest form puts them in the same categories as similarly timeless bands as diverse as Foo Fighters, Paul McCartney, The Replacements or even The Hives or The Killers. Like all those bands (many of which the members of Black Tangerine consider influences), you'll also hear heavy reminders of early 80's radio, with bands like The Fixx, The Tubes or Journey coming to mind.

Still, their hummable, poppy melodies stand on their own throughout time - as relevant now as it would've been if they had been released in any recent decades.

The poppy, hum-inducing, delightfully danceable and retro-influenced Black Tangerine recently rose from the ashes of the prominent Portland band called Water. Now, with a slightly different lineup and a new lease on its musical life, Black Tangerine fulfills the promise of its accomplished predecessor, its muscular attitude and a shiny top-40 sound.

Drummer/vocalist Rob Elliot and guitarist/vocalist Eric Worley helped lead Portland audiences to Water, which performed with many national acts such as Soul Asylum, Eve 6, Dave Perner and Garbage. The group also garnered much praise from local critics as well as staunch support from KINK's Kevin Welch, who has put them on the air. Self-professed fans included Art Alexakis and even Andrew Dice Clay.

Bassist Dean Mueller has played extensively in the Northwest blues and rock world, including with locals such as Curtis Salgado, Jimi Bott, Robbie Laws and Lloyd Jones. He's also jammed with some of his own heroes over the years, such as Honeyboy Edwards, Phil Wiggins, John Cephas, Lightnin' Wells and Louisiana Red.

Guitarist Steve Sarber brings a hefty sound and technical adeptness to the band, as well as a varied background in rock and country bands over the years. With other bands, he has opened for nationals such as Head East, Mitch Ryder, Chris LeDoux and Colin Raye.