Biography

Mesmere (pronounced Mez-meer) derives from the word mesmerize.
Mesmerise (v):
to attract strongly, as if with a magnet
To induce hypnosis, a state of heightened awareness and focused concentration that can be used to manipulate perception

This definition encapsulates Mesmere's compelling sound, which is propelling their new album, “An Overlong Welcome,” onto the international scene. Their music blends genres artfully, providing a listener with the opportunity to groove on the melodic and harmonic offerings, or immersing one in layer after layer of sound, weaving a tapestry that is stunning in its complexity and beauty—but eminently listenable..

But it’s not the coming together that defines Mesmere as much as the sheer diversity of experience they bring to the stage and recording studio. From performing in metal, funk, jazz and rock bands to writing and performing theatre, this is a group of artists that’s not inclined to enforce a rigid style of performance. Instead, their music has evolved organically as each member continues to develop his or her art. This refusal to limit ideas has led to some very interesting and elaborate music, and based on their rapidly growing fan base, it’s a concept that is working very well.

This willingness to experiment derives, perhaps, from the broad spectrum of influences that informs their work: Pink Floyd, Tori Amos, Radiohead, Tool, Nick Cave, Nina Simone, and Janis Joplin, among others.

Critically-acclaimed for the epic nature of their sound, Mesmere is at home in large venues where they can fill space with big sound and striking visuals, but they are equally able to create intimate moments during which the audience hangs off of every word. The emphasis in their music is on creating emotional connections, with a powerful vocal centrepiece to a rhythm section built on intricate arrangements embedded in a seething mass of guitar trickery.

Mesmere’s music strikes a fine balance: between beauty and destruction, peace and unease. Listeners are swept into a raging torrent of sound that builds and builds to crashing crescendos, all the while being seduced by intriguing stories and rich emotion.

Mesmere’s website is located at - www.mesmere.com - or - www.myspace.com/mesmere.

“An intriguing blend of styles… Mesmere certainly live up their name.”
- Brett Collingwood, Rave Magazine

“An Overlong Welcome is an ethereal exploration of texture and dynamic. It chimes where it should and punishes appropriately.”
- Evan Alexander, The Blurb

Mesmere
Maryanne Stewart Vocals
Lewis Benbow Guitars
Jamie Burrows Bass
Tim Bodisco Drums
Jeremy Wellard Guitars