Poro

Poro, meaning good friend in pidgin (Tok Pisin), is a musical project based outside of Cleveland, Ohio created by Mark Porostosky (Guitar, Banjo, Keys, Mandolin), present multi-instrumentalist in The Lighthouse and the Whaler. Mark is joined by fellow TLATW member, Ryan Walker (Bass, Banjo, Keys), and good friend, Thomas Ulle (Drums). Together they create a sensitive and unique version of Alternative Melodic-Pop (that could be compared to the likes of Sufjan Stevens, Copeland, and Phoenix).

After six years of writing and touring with TLATW, Mark wanted to create another project based on material and concepts he had been writing outside of TLATW. However, not having committed band members to fully complete the songs challenged the desire.  This changed in the summer of 2015 when Mark met Thomas while both were working as house painters. They soon connected over a strong love for music. Thomas convinced Mark to bring his guitar to work and after hearing a few songs committed to playing drums for the project that would be eventually named Poro.  Thus, the earliest practices were between the two of them outside of large Cleveland dwellings while on lunch breaks. A much more fruitful endeavor than literally watching paint dry. In the fall of 2015 they were joined by Ryan as they started to play shows in Cleveland. In the Spring of 2016, Poro self-recorded its first EP, Treat Yourself and it was later mixed by Chris Hansen (longtime member and writer in Matt Pond PA).   

Poro’s debut EP, Treat Yourself, was written and recorded in Mark’s bedroom turned home studio. Lyrically Treat Yourself has a theme based around self-confidence. The EP reflects the honesty and sincerity of a DIY approach while maintaining excellent sonic quality throughout the production. Treat Yourself EP is out now.