Suggested:
Meet Boat Command, a band that has spent the last five years charting a course through uncharted musical waters. Comprised of Matt Guard (Keyboard/Synth), Owen Myers (Guitar), Chandler Bell (Bass), and Hinton Edgerton (Drums), the group’s origins trace back to Boone, NC. What began as a humble collaboration in a basement studio has grown into a fully-fledged musical project defined by raw emotion, deep collaboration, and a sense of adventure. In their own words, they are “Post Lo-Fi Yacht Hop,” a term as enigmatic and intriguing as their sound.
A Fusion of Sounds and Emotions
Describing Boat Command’s style is no easy task, even for the band themselves. The term "fusion" comes up often, but it’s the self-coined label "Post Lo-Fi Yacht Hop" that perhaps best encapsulates their genre-defying music. With influences ranging from jazz fusion legends like Herbie Hancock to hip-hop icons such as A Tribe Called Quest, their sound refuses to be boxed in. The band is driven by a constant undercurrent of emotion, exploring everything from joy to uncertainty, which aligns perfectly with their nautical- inspired themes. According to the group, the concept of "boating" is central to their music, symbolizing the unknown journey that comes with collaboration, trust, and creative exploration.
Creating as One: The Songwriting Process
Boat Command’s songwriting is a true testament to the power of collaboration. The band operates in a way that ensures all members have an equal voice in the creative process. "Our process is as collaborative as it could possibly be," explains Matt. The songs often start as a small spark—perhaps a chord progression from Owen or a synth texture from Matt—that gets fleshed out as the whole band adds their parts. Other times, songs seem to materialize out of thin air, with the group locking in and building off one another’s energy. Their synergy is a result of years spent honing not just their musical abilities, but also their interpersonal dynamics, ensuring mutual respect is at the core of every decision.
Pandemic-Era Growth and Milestone Moments
Like many artists, Boat Command found themselves creatively challenged during the pandemic. However, rather than stalling, the band used this time to sharpen their craft, culminating in the release of their self-titled debut album. This project marked a significant step in their journey, showcasing their growth and evolution. As Matt reflects, the album was a deep expression of the emotions the band experienced during the tumultuous pandemic years. The release was celebrated with an unforgettable album release show, and the band continues to receive praise for their distinct sound and dedication to their craft.
Visual Artistry and Aesthetic Vision
Boat Command’s approach to their visuals is as thoughtful as their music. Owen Myers, the guitarist, spearheads the visual direction, drawing inspiration from vaporwave and early 2000s computer graphics. The band’s aesthetic is built around recurring visual themes, from geometry to consistent color palettes, ensuring that their imagery complements their sound. Collaborating with local visual artists has also allowed the band to expand their creative horizons, working with talents like Maddeft Media and Perpetual Present Photos to bring their vision to life.
Conclusion
For Boat Command, music is not just about the final product but the journey it takes to get there. Whether crafting their next album or reflecting on the collaborative spirit that keeps them afloat, they see themselves as equal parts musicians and shipmates, each playing a crucial role in steering the ship. As they continue to explore new sounds and concepts, Boat Command’s fans can rest assured that this band is in it for the long haul—no matter where the winds take them next.
