Jangles and Drums
A pantoum by Marissa Bell Toffoli. “Jangles and Drums.” Train Tracts, Utah (2008). Print design done by Davina Pallone. Photo courtesy of Amie Tullius.
Nathan had been in his first semi-serious band, The NPCs (Non-Player Characters), for roughly 3 years as the lead vocalist and primary lyricist. It’s safe to say the NPCs had a grungy garage-punk sound similar to Nirvana but with an updated White Stripes meets Hives twist. Unfortunately the band disbanded in September of 2005, 70-646 due to misunderstandings and dwindling interest, having yet to play any substantial venues. After his band dissolved Nathan began playing acoustic guitar more often and writing his own songs. Having eclectic taste and a wide range is singing styles, Nathan’s solo project was similarly varied and gave him the chance to experiment. He dubbed this project Melacoma, 70-620 a variation on the name of a summer camp he had passed outside of Washougal Washington. Since he began playing music on his own Nathan had become much more immersed in Psychedelic music. Always a huge Beatles and Doors fan, he also found himself borderline obsessed with bands like, "Black Rebel Motorcycle Club", "The Brian Jonestown Massacre", "Viva Voce", and "The Black Angels". Nathan’s younger brother, Joel, was heavily involved in music through his school. Most notably, he played upright bass in their jazz band program and orchestra. He also started playing electric bass and writing his own music with his friend Andrew Mathews. 70-536 They eventually settled on the name "Product Placement", and are still actively involved and writing music together.
Whut?! I thought this wuz Sylvia Plath fosho... Still its muy good. Better than Walt.
