Pretend

Pretend are a Southern Californian math rock quartet who effortlessly blend complicated arrangements with smooth, sentimental vocals. Their music is highly technical and emotional without being aggressive or punishing, and they make jagged rhythms seem dreamy and accessible. The group formed in 2004, consisting of drummer Joel Morgan, guitarist Timothy Ramirez, vocalist/guitarist Luke Palascak, and bassist Denver Billing. The band's debut album, Bones in the Soil, Rust in the Oil, was self-released in 2009, with a second pressing (including different artwork and a modified track list) issued by Shelsmusic in 2010. Eventually Mike Russell (who recorded Pretend's debut) became the group's bassist, and they continued building their epic compositions while their debut slowly amassed a cult following. In 2015, Topshelf Records signed the group and issued their vinyl debut, the double LP Tapestry'd Life.
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