James Bertram and co.'s Washington State thumb-twiddlers make solemnly pretty sadcore that's as versatile as it is mopey. With their scudding drums, wandering bass lines, and low-vol vocals, the boys could be soundtracking a teen angst of Angela Chase proportions or just chronicling another rainy day in the Pacific Northwest.
Red Stars Theory hailing from Washington State was a cooperative of musicians who began recording together in 1995. Comprised of James Bertram (guitar/vocals), Jeremiah Green (drums), Tonie Palmasani (guitar/vocals), and Jason Talley (bass). They released two EP's and one full length in four years. Their first effort for Touch & Go, Life in a Bubble Can Be Beautiful, was released in 1999. The vocals are sparse, and mostly performed by guest Lois Maffeo. Seth Warren became a permanent member of the group after coming into the studio to record some violin tracks.
Due to Jeremiah and James' hectic touring schedules (playing in both Modest Mouse and 764-Hero), the band had a fairly infrequent touring life. Much like the music, the band's way of carrying themselves was always a bit understated, choosing to play mostly at house parties as opposed to the standard indie circuit.