Falling Birch

Falling Birch aims to break ground with instrumental rock that is both original and accessible. The combination of violin, guitar, bass, and drums takes the classic rock band and adds a post-rock twist. Drawing on elements of progressive, grunge, modern, and post-rock, the group seeks to create a unique sound that uses the instruments in new ways. The band formed in Milwaukee, WI in 2010.

Karl Stuen, violin, was formerly a member of acoustic chamber rock group Fermata, based in Madison, WI. He recorded on Fermata’s album, Only Ghosts Remain and was nominated for the 2009 Madison Area Music Award String Player of the Year. Karl has performed in eight countries and currently also performs with the Green Bay Symphony.

Benhur Khamrang, guitar, is a native of India but has had a musical career that has spanned the globe. In India, Benhur was a member of the bands COP and Three Clay Men. Later moving to Chile, Benhur played in a band under his own name and released the album Tipico, as well as others. Ben has also become a sound engineer, recording and self-releasing music of many styles.

Shawn Smocke, bass, was previously a member of the band Eyes of Noctum in Los Angeles, CA. Among his accomlishments with the band, Shawn recorded on the album Awakening at Studio Fredman in Gothenburg, Sweden with acclaimed producer Fredrik Nordström.

Brendon Thomas, drums, last appeared in the ska band Hired Geeks in Kenosha, WI and has performed all over the Midwest. Brendon helped the band develop a reputation for a unique polyrhythmic style. Brendon performed with Hired Geeks in the Warped Tour in Milwaukee and in the Skappleton ska festival.