Harvest Runes, a band recently reborn with a sleek new online presence, is poised to make a significant impact on the indie music scene. Their journey, marked by dedication and a relentless pursuit of artistic expression, began years ago with the ambitious vision of James Wolff, a classically trained musician with a penchant for pushing boundaries.
Wolff's story starts in 2003, as a student at Peabody Conservatory, where he formed Motion Commotion. The band's potential quickly attracted the attention of Piermont Records, who offered a tempting deal. Faced with a choice between academic studies and a full-time music career, Wolff chose the latter, diving headfirst into the world of indie music. This early experience, including a pivotal SXSW tour, provided invaluable lessons in band leadership and collaborative songwriting.
After Peabody, Wolff moved to Washington, D.C., balancing a technical career with his artistic pursuits. He founded The Cascade, an ambitious orchestral indie-rock band. Though their planned album was never fully realised due to logistical hurdles, the raw recordings laid the groundwork for future projects. This experience underscored the challenges of the music industry and the importance of perseverance.
In 2023, Wolff revisited his extensive archive of unreleased material. With the aid of modern technology, he remastered and refined these tracks, culminating in the formation of Harvest Runes. The band's discography showcases a remarkable evolution. Their debut, ‘Eyes Like Stars’, is a vibrant indie-pop record, setting the stage for their more experimental second album, ‘King of Clouds’, a deeply introspective work. The third album, ‘New Age Oblivion’ sees Wolff realising his orchestral vision, featuring a 17-piece ensemble reminiscent of Sufjan Stevens' grander projects.
The band's sonic evolution is a testament to Wolff's diverse musical background. While ‘Eyes Like Stars’ leans into classic indie-pop sensibilities, ‘King of Clouds’ is a bold step into more studio-produced textures. ‘New Age Oblivion’, however, represents a significant departure, embracing a rich, orchestral soundscape.
Now, with a remastered back catalogue and a new record label partnership with New York City’s Sungate Records, Harvest Runes are ready for their national debut. Their upcoming release, ‘The Weight of Shadows’, set for Spring 2025, promises to further solidify their place in the indie music landscape.
For more from Harvest Runes, be sure to check out the new website, or follow them today on Instagram, Facebook, TikTok, and X.
