Old Timer

For over four decades, The Choir, originally from Los Angeles and now based in Nashville, has been a cornerstone of the indie rock and alternative music scenes, crafting songs that blend atmospheric soundscapes with poetic lyrics and heartfelt spirituality. With a distinctive style marked by Derri Daugherty’s ethereal guitar work and hauntingly emotive voice, Steve Hindalong’s reflective and poignant lyrics, and Dan Michaels’ evocative saxophone, lyricon, and wind synthesizer playing, The Choir has cultivated a sound that is as innovative as it is timeless. Their music transcends genres, resonating deeply with fans who have remained fiercely loyal through the years.

Emerging in the early 1980s, The Choir quickly gained a reputation for their lush, ambient sound and contemplative songwriting. Albums like Chase the Kangaroo (1988) and Circle Slide (1990) established the band as pioneers in the alternative Christian music landscape. These records, now considered classics, showcase the band’s ability to balance raw emotion with intricate, atmospheric instrumentation. Songs such as "About Love" and "Consider" captured the hearts of listeners with their honest explorations of love, doubt, and faith.

Throughout the 1990s, The Choir continued to evolve, releasing critically acclaimed albums like Free Flying Soul (1996), which featured a more upbeat and textured sound, and Flap Your Wings (2000), a Grammy-nominated album celebrated for its soulful beauty and melodic richness. Each project demonstrated the band’s commitment to pushing creative boundaries while staying true to their core themes of vulnerability and spiritual exploration.

In recent years, The Choir has embraced a do-it-yourself ethos, connecting directly with their audience through platforms like Patreon. This intimate approach has allowed the band to release new music consistently, including standout albums like Bloodshot (2018) and Deep Cuts (2021), which continue to resonate with their ever-loyal fanbase. In 2024, The Choir unveiled Translucent, an instrumental ambient album blending Daugherty’s shimmering guitars, Hindalong’s electronic percussion, and Michaels’ atmospheric wind instrumentation. This late-career triumph was hailed as a moody and serene masterpiece, reflecting the band’s ability to innovate while staying grounded in their signature sound.

The Choir’s lyrical depth has always been a defining feature. Steve Hindalong’s words delve into themes of faith, doubt, relationships, and redemption, offering a raw and relatable perspective that has struck a chord with listeners for decades. Paired with Daugherty’s soaring, emotional vocals, the lyrics create moments of profound connection. Michaels’ contributions on saxophone and lyricon add a layer of sophistication and texture, setting The Choir apart from other bands in the genre.

Beyond their music, The Choir’s enduring friendship and brotherhood are central to their identity. Despite personal struggles and professional challenges, the band has remained a cohesive unit, drawing strength from their shared history and their close relationship with fans, affectionately referred to as their "tribe." This bond has been a source of inspiration for both the band and their audience, a testament to the healing power of music and community.

The Choir’s influence extends beyond their own catalog. Steve Hindalong’s production work, including the new Sixpence None The Richer EP released in 2024, and Dan Michaels’ efforts in helping other artists during his tenure as a marketing executive at Fair Trade Services, working with acclaimed acts such as MercyMe, Sara Groves, The Afters, and CeCe Winans, demonstrate the band’s broader impact on the music world. Their collaborative spirit and dedication to excellence continue to inspire both peers and fans alike.

As The Choir continues to write and record, their legacy remains one of artistic courage, spiritual depth, and unwavering connection with their listeners. With a catalog that includes iconic songs like “Beautiful Scandalous Night” and recent highlights like Translucent, The Choir proves that their creative journey is far from over. Whether through their groundbreaking albums, heartfelt performances, or the intimate connection they share with their fans, The Choir remains a beacon of authenticity and artistry in a changing musical landscape.