“Charts is one of Oregon's most underrated bands. The group's sound is a swirl of garage, punk and pop rock influences bolstered by the endearingly frayed voice of singer and songwriter Michael Rowan. It's an affect that gives listeners a warm and fuzzy feeling like they've just stumbled into the best house party of the year. In fact, their last single, "Trust In Me," has probably destroyed at least a few Portlanders' living room speakers.The band's newest release, "Anita," is slightly more understated but still a fun ride. The surfy song was recorded at The Map Room in Southeast Portland with producer Josh Powell (who is producing Charts' forthcoming full-length album).” Jerad Walker (OPB)
Charts are a rock and roll band based on Michael Rowan’s songwriting and Luke Beckel's guitar work. The two met by chance after a mutual friend had sent Beckel to see a Charts show. The two bonded over a love for the Everly Brothers, Phil Spector, and The Rolling Stones. With Beckel's addition- the sound evolved into something bigger. Like studio musicians covering The Supremes in the style of The Velvet Underground.
The sounds have evolved over the years, but the love and jubilation for rock and roll remain. Charts are feel-good music and are a damn great time. The band has been a staple in the Portland music scene for ten years with a discography that ranges from the lo-fi sounds of a Tascam four-track, the precision of high fi studio to the warm saturation of 2-inch tape. Charts have supported numerous International acts in Portland, from Best Coast, Cut Worms, Low Cut Connie and Fat White Family.
"Local band Charts opened with a set of loose and jangly rock and roll that fused psych and garage rock with a touch of power pop sprinkled in for good measure. Perhaps one of the finest bands in Portland, the quintet unleashed a three-guitar attack on songs that bounced from simple rockers to 60’s-esque flower child sounds. Lead singer Michael Rowan held it all together with a voice that at times felt like Joe Strummer but with a shakier, more vulnerable side.” - Glide Magazine
"On their latest single, “Trust in Me,” Portland band Charts have a definite likeness to The Rolling Stones and a truly positive attitude towards life. "Feeling pretty good, the weather’s alright," singer Michael Rowan yells at the beginning of one of several short verses that quickly escalate to a celebratory chorus followed by playful lead guitar solos. It's clear that this group loves making music and just wants to have a good time."- Max Robinson (OPB)
"For a while now, Charts has been one of Portland’s more underrated bands, playing tight, garage-pop flecked with surfy guitar, ‘50s rock elements and pronounced melodic smarts without coming across like mere retro pastiche. Its 2013 EP, Vacation, contained a few great prom ballads, but “Fade Away,” the first single off its upcoming debut full-length, is a hip-swiveling beach-party jam, sounding something like Franz Ferdinand transposed to the West Coast. Charts is slated for release in late April." (MS) Willamette Week
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