The Michelles

The Michelles are a MusicAL group comprising vocalist/guitarist Timothy Lalonde, bassist Julian von Zittwitz and drummer Graeme Pearce. Their sound is commonly described as indie rock, drawing from several other musical genres. The Michelles were founded in London, England and are currently based in Berlin, Germany.

History

The Michelles began in March 2005 in London, England when Tim Lalonde met fellow expatriates Gustaf Heden and Dean Rostron. Lalonde, raised in Richmond, Virginia, had dropped out of college and relocated to Europe earlier that year. In late 2005, after several initial live performances and the recording of a four track demo, Rostron departed the group. Heden and Lalonde then recruited guitarist Marc Hayward and drummer Graeme Pearce, going on to play numerous concerts in and around London and eventually signing for two singles at UK label, Cheesedream.

Towards the end of 2006, after a debut single release and short promotional European tour, Heden decided to leave the band to pursue a solo career in the United States. The loss of songwriter Heden and subsequently Hayward was an opportunity for the two remaining members to relocate the band. LaLonde and Pearce moved to Berlin; Germany, citing a love of the city's atmosphere, LifeStyle and intimate music scene for the choice. The two started seeking for a new bassist and lead guitarist upon their arrival, playing several shows with various line ups, until settling on a young local bassist, Jules. At one point, they engaged Chikinki's rhythm guitarist, Ed East. During this time The Michelles played live shows in Germany, Switzerland, Austria, United Kingdom, France and Hungary.

Because the band was founded in London, a lot of people compare their sound to other British based indie bands, like The Libertines. However, primary songwriter Lalonde wasn't even aware of these bands before his arrival in London. The songs in question were written by Lalonde prior to his relocation to Europe. At that time he listened to indie music by his American comtemporaries almost exclusively.

Members

Current Members

Timothy Lalonde - vocals, guitar;
Jules - bass, vocals;
Graeme Pearce - drums;
Previous Members

Gustaf Heden - vocals, bass, guitar;
Dean Rostron - lead guitar;
Marc Hayward - lead guitar, vocals;

Discography

Releases

Film Soundtracks

The Michelles single "Springtime" appears on the soundtrack to the movie Two Days In Paris, starring Adam Goldberg and Julie Delpy.

External Links

Official Band Website
The Michelles at MySpace
The Michelles' video for "Springtime" on Youtube