Mt. Desolation

865 Listeners

Artist Bio

Introduction & Current Status Mt. Desolation, the brainchild of Keane's Tim Rice-Oxley and The Killers' Mark Stoermer, isn't your typical side project. It's more like a musical escape route where stadium rock titans ditch the synths and spandex for something a little more… introspective. While both bands continue to dominate their respective corners of the music world, Mt. Desolation remains a testament to their shared love of Americana and alt-country vibes. They might not be topping the charts every week, but their influence on the indie scene is undeniable. Their understated cool continues to resonate with fans craving authenticity. Think of Mt. Desolation as that hidden gem in your record collection. It's not the obvious headliner, but it's the album you keep coming back to when you need something real. With sporadic releases and a commitment to quality over quantity, they've cultivated a dedicated following who appreciate their low-key approach to music making. The project serves as a reminder that even rockstars need a place to explore their softer, more vulnerable side. Early Life & Background Tim Rice-Oxley, the piano maestro of Keane, and Mark Stoermer, the bass virtuoso of The Killers, come from vastly different backgrounds, yet found common ground in their shared musical passions. Rice-Oxley, hailing from Oxford, England, was steeped in classical music from a young age, his upbringing a far cry from the neon-lit stages of Las Vegas where Stoermer honed his rock sensibilities. Stoermer's journey began amidst the vibrant, if somewhat chaotic, energy of Las Vegas. He absorbed the city's eclectic musical landscape, drawing inspiration from punk rock, new wave, and alternative artists. This diverse exposure shaped his distinctive bass playing and songwriting style. While Rice-Oxley was crafting meticulously arranged pop anthems, Stoermer was cutting his teeth in the local Vegas music scene, a world away from the polished sheen of Keane's Brit-pop sound. Despite their contrasting origins, both musicians shared a deep appreciation for American roots music – the storytelling tradition of country, the raw emotion of blues, and the introspective nature of folk. This mutual love became the foundation for Mt. Desolation, a project where they could explore these influences without the constraints of their main bands. Career Beginnings The genesis of Mt. Desolation was surprisingly casual. Rice-Oxley and Stoermer, initially just friends bonding over shared musical tastes, began jamming together during downtime from their respective bands. These informal sessions, fuelled by whiskey and a mutual desire to experiment, quickly blossomed into something more substantial. It wasn't a calculated career move; it was pure creative impulse. Their first recordings were raw and unpolished, capturing the intimate atmosphere of their jam sessions. They enlisted the help of friends and fellow musicians to flesh out their sound, creating a loose collective centered around their shared love of Americana. The project gained momentum organically, fueled by word-of-mouth and a growing sense of excitement among their inner circle. Mt. Desolation's early struggles were less about industry hurdles and more about balancing the project with their commitments to Keane and The Killers. Finding time to record and tour was a logistical challenge, but their passion for the music kept them motivated. The project offered a creative outlet, a chance to step outside the spotlight and reconnect with the simple joy of making music with friends. In essence, Mt. Desolation began as a passion project, a side hustle born from genuine musical kinship. Major Albums & Discography Mt. Desolation's discography, while not extensive, is marked by a consistent thread of melancholic beauty and understated musicianship. Each album serves as a snapshot of their evolving sound, a journey through the landscapes of Americana with a distinctly British and Vegas-tinged perspective. Their albums are less about chasing trends and more about exploring the timeless themes of love, loss, and the human condition. Their self-titled debut album, "Mt. Desolation," released in 2010, was a critical success, praised for its authentic sound and heartfelt songwriting. The album showcased their ability to blend British sensibilities with American roots music, creating a unique sonic tapestry. Songs like "Departure" and "State Lines" became fan favorites, beloved for their evocative lyrics and haunting melodies. Their second album, "When the Storm Has Passed," released in 2018, saw them further refine their sound, delving deeper into the complexities of human emotion. The album was praised for its mature songwriting and nuanced instrumentation. While not a commercial juggernaut, it solidified their reputation as a band capable of crafting consistently high-quality music that resonates with a dedicated audience. The evolution of their sound demonstrates a commitment to artistic growth and exploration, a willingness to push boundaries while staying true to their core musical values. Hit Songs & Signature Tracks Mt. Desolation doesn't necessarily traffic in traditional "hit songs" in the pop sense. Their strength lies in crafting deeply resonant tracks that connect with listeners on an emotional level. "Departure," from their debut album, is arguably their most well-known song, a haunting ballad that captures the pain of separation and the bittersweet nature of goodbyes. Its understated beauty and evocative lyrics have made it a staple of their live performances. "State Lines" is another signature track, a driving Americana-infused song that explores themes of travel, longing, and the search for belonging. The song's infectious melody and relatable lyrics have made it a favorite among fans who appreciate their ability to capture the essence of the human experience. While these songs may not have topped the Billboard charts, they have achieved a level of cultural impact within the indie and Americana scenes. Their songs resonate with listeners who appreciate authenticity and emotional depth. They create music for those who seek solace in melancholic melodies and introspective lyrics. Their signature tracks are less about instant gratification and more about lasting impact, proving that true artistry lies in the ability to connect with audiences on a deeper, more meaningful level. Collaborations & Features While Mt. Desolation is primarily a collaboration between Rice-Oxley and Stoermer, they have welcomed a rotating cast of talented musicians into their fold. Their live performances and studio recordings often feature guest appearances from friends and fellow artists, creating a collaborative atmosphere that enhances their music. This spirit of collaboration is integral to the band's identity, reflecting their belief in the power of collective creativity. They've collaborated with a range of artists from different genres, showcasing their versatility and willingness to experiment. These collaborations have added new dimensions to their sound, enriching their music with diverse perspectives and influences. This willingness to embrace collaboration has solidified their reputation as a band that values artistic exploration and the power of musical connection. The collaborative nature of Mt. Desolation extends beyond their own recordings. They actively support and promote other artists in the indie and Americana scenes, fostering a sense of community and mutual support. This commitment to collaboration reflects their genuine passion for music and their belief in the importance of nurturing creativity in all its forms. Awards & Achievements Mt. Desolation's achievements are not measured in platinum records or Grammy Awards, but in the enduring impact they've had on the indie and Americana music scenes. Their albums have garnered critical acclaim, praised for their authentic sound, heartfelt songwriting, and understated musicianship. They have cultivated a dedicated following of fans who appreciate their commitment to quality over quantity. Their influence can be seen in the work of other artists who have been inspired by their unique blend of British sensibilities and American roots music. They have helped to bridge the gap between these two musical worlds, creating a space for cross-cultural exchange and collaboration. Their legacy lies in their ability to create music that resonates with listeners on an emotional level, music that speaks to the universal human experience. While they may not have achieved mainstream superstardom, their contributions to the music world are undeniable. They have proven that success can be measured in different ways, that true artistry lies in the ability to create something meaningful and lasting, regardless of commercial considerations. Mt. Desolation stands as a testament to the power of collaboration, the importance of artistic integrity, and the enduring appeal of authentic, heartfelt music. Personal Life Tim Rice-Oxley and Mark Stoermer maintain relatively private personal lives, preferring to let their music speak for itself. Both musicians are known for their commitment to their families and their dedication to their respective bands, Keane and The Killers. Mt. Desolation remains a passion project, a creative outlet that allows them to explore different musical avenues without the pressures of mainstream fame. Beyond their musical pursuits, both Rice-Oxley and Stoermer are involved in various philanthropic endeavors. They support causes related to music education, environmental conservation, and social justice. Their commitment to giving back reflects their belief in the power of music to create positive change in the world. They use their platform to raise awareness about important issues and inspire others to get involved. Musical Style & Influence Mt. Desolation's musical style is a unique blend of Americana, alt-country, and indie rock, infused with British sensibilities and a touch of Vegas grit. They draw inspiration from a wide range of artists, including The Band, Gram Parsons, and Ryan Adams, while also incorporating elements of their own musical backgrounds. Their sound is characterized by melancholic melodies, introspective lyrics, and understated instrumentation. They have influenced a new generation of artists who are exploring the boundaries of Americana and alt-country. Their willingness to experiment with different sounds and styles has inspired others to push the envelope and create music that is both innovative and authentic. Their legacy lies in their ability to create a unique sonic landscape that is both familiar and surprising. Their impact on the music world extends beyond their own recordings. They have helped to popularize the Americana genre among younger audiences, introducing a new generation to the timeless themes and sounds of American roots music. Mt. Desolation has proven that music can be both commercially successful and artistically fulfilling, that it is possible to stay true to your vision while also connecting with a wide audience. Recent Work & What's Next While Mt. Desolation hasn't released new music recently, fans remain hopeful for future projects. Both Rice-Oxley and Stoermer continue to be active with their respective bands, Keane and The Killers, touring and recording new material. Mt. Desolation remains a beloved side project, a testament to their enduring friendship and shared musical passion. The future of Mt. Desolation is uncertain, but their legacy is secure. They have created a body of work that will continue to inspire and resonate with listeners for years to come. Whether they release new music or not, their contribution to the indie and Americana music scenes will not be forgotten.

Popular Albums

Popular Songs

Most popular songs by Mt. Desolation
Track Number	Song	Release Date	Album
01	Too Hard A Stone	Mar 24, 2023	Through Crooked Aim
02	There’s Not Much Left You Can Say About Love	Apr 21, 2023	Through Crooked Aim
03	Industry	N/A	Through Crooked Aim
04	If You Knew	N/A	Through Crooked Aim
05	All Well I Trust	N/A	Through Crooked Aim
06	Annie Ford	N/A	Mt. Desolation
07	Bitter Pill (Demo)	Oct 18, 2010	Mt. Desolation
08	Emily [Exclusive Track]	Oct 19, 2010	Mt. Desolation
09	Halo of fireflies	Oct 18, 2010	Mt. Desolation
10	Pushed Around	Oct 18, 2010	Mt. Desolation
11	After You’re Gone	May 25, 2018	When the Night Calls
12	When The Night Calls	May 25, 2018	When the Night Calls
13	By The River	May 25, 2018	When the Night Calls
14	Someday, Somehow	May 25, 2018	When the Night Calls
15	Distraction	Mar 25, 2018	When the Night Calls
16	Sunrise	Feb 17, 2023	Through Crooked Aim
17	On Your Way	Apr 13, 2018	When the Night Calls
18	State Of Our Affairs	Jan 1, 2010	Mt. Desolation
19	The Midnight Ghost	N/A	Mt. Desolation
20	Coming Home	N/A	Mt. Desolation