Singer/songwriter/multi-instrumentalist Nicole Saphos’ musical identity can be categorized somewhere between jazz and indie rock. In her latest musical endeavor—the twelve-track live album 'Takoma Sessions' — the Los Angeles-bred, Philly-based artist delivers a sequence of groove-heavy, pop-friendly originals, complimented by bold vocal harmonies.

Drawing on themes of dislocation and dreamlike imagery, Strange Pilgrim is an exploration of living in an increasingly unfamiliar world. Much of their lyrical content focuses on the social and political uncertainty of these times, on connecting with nature, and on yearning for some form of freedom. Their harmony-drenched, psych-pop sound is centered on the experience of venturing toward some unknown horizon, for better or for worse. 

Strange Pilgrim is Joshua Barnhart’s new Oakland band. He first became known as the drummer of the acclaimed Bay Area band Port O’Brien. For three years, he toured Europe, North America, and Australia with them. Since then, he has played drums, guitar, and sang with bands including Release the Sunbird, Two Sheds, Kelly McFarling, Vetiver, Sparrows Gate, and Zeb Zaitz.

Strange Pilgrim began as a side-project duo under Joshua’s name, featuring guitarist Paul Dutton. In 2016, they recorded and released their first album, Turn Out The Light. Over the next two years, the band added  drums, bass, and an additional lead guitar. They released two singles, "Dance with Me" and “Blue Eyes,” and eventually, a solid lineup formed with Adam Nash (of Goodnight Texas), Pat Spurgeon (of Rogue Wave), Sterling Schlegel, Paul Dutton, and Taylor Belmore. 
 
They released "Salt and Seagulls" on March 6th, and "Staring at the Sky" on July 24th, 2020. 
Their new single, "Blue Light" is out on Feb 5, 2021.

Contributing writer for Indie Shuffle. All I want to do is find, share and see music live. 

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