Kustem......exploded into Portland’s rock scene just a year ago. When members of the defunct local sensation Clutter found new vocalist Travis Burke in TAXI’s classified. Through Internet collaboration, they were able to craft a style that blends modern rock with psychedelic sounds. The distance from California to Portland was not enough to stop this musical bond.

Longtime friends Trent Nunn and Seth Bates are the chief songwriters and guitarist. The rhythm section of Will Sheppy and Dusty Spivey give the songs a solid groove. Travis Burke adds an incredible vocal range and haunting melodies to the mix. The live show is a high-energy sonic assault.

Kustem is a new band but their demo CD has gotten airplay on radio in Portland and in Santa Cruz. Online listeners consistently flock to the website and ask for more music. Kustem is planning a west coast summer tour in July of and a European tour later in the year. A full length CD is in the works and is anticipated by many.

Bio

Kustem---Modern Rock

contact Trent Nunn

kustem@hotmail.com

503.704.0932



About the Band……..

Memorable is a word that best describes the music of Kustem. Music that employs concise songwriting, raw emotion, high energy, and meaningful lyrics is hard to forget. From the first listen, Kustem will take you on a roller coaster of emotions coupled with sonic beauty and formidable power. Their music has been described as "hopeful despair" by many. The sound and spirit of the band are such that the listener feels highs and lows while enjoying the tactful musicianship of the band.

Kustem is the new leader of Portland’s modern rock scene. With versatility that can place them with heavy metal bands, pop rock acts, emo-core and punk rock, Kustem will surely find a place in the hearts and ears of most. Kustem’s music has pieces of all of these genres tightly arranged in songs with big hooks and catchy riffs. Songwriting is the focus of this band and the result is music that weaves many elements together in an emotionally charged package.

Kustem is a new band formed by the members of the popular Portland band Clutter. They have won OSU’s battle of the bands and headlined many shows, and opened for such notable acts as Floater. Their shows have always encouraged crowd participation and showmanship that is unmatched. Guitarists Trent Nunn and Seth Bates are the band’s primary songwriters. Will Sheppy and Dusty Spivey provide a solid rhythm section and give the band momentum that is usually lacking in the modern rock genre.

To complete the band, Kustem recruited vocalist Travis Burke from his California band "Breed of Mind." With an incredible vocal range, addictive melodies, and poetic lyricism, he is the perfect match for this band. His onstage energy matches well with the showmanship of his new band mates. When Kustem performs, they deliver an experience for the eyes and the ears.

The band recently recorded a Four song EP, simply titled Kustem, with producer Rob Stroup. The CD will leave you wanting more and gets better with each listen. The attention to detail and emotional charge shine through on each cut as the band includes sounds heard only before on major label, high budget recordings. Music of this nature grows inside you with each listen.

Quick Facts……………

Genre: Modern Rock

Venues played: Sabala’s, Paris Theatre (Portland), OSU Battle of the Bands (Corvallis), Bottom of the Hill (San Francisco), Cactus Club (San Jose).

Band Members: Trent Nunn and Seth Bates (guitars), Will Sheppy (bass), Dusty Spivey (drums/percussion), Travis Burke (vocals).

Often Compared to: A Perfect Circle, Chevelle, Three Days Grace

Recordings: Four Song EP-"Kustem" Produced by Rob Stroup

Website: www.kustemband.com

Email: kustem@hotmail.com

"Quotes"

"Kustem does more then eek by. As far as local bands go, they are organized, talented, and full of energy which makes them fun to watch. The amount of energy they put into a practice session coupled with deep focus only makes them stronger. Kustem has survived many hurdles, and bets are that they’ll go for the gold. They’re too good not to."

Minnie McBride

Barometer Music Editor



"Kustem was able to draw in the crowd and create great interaction and connection with the audience. They showed professionalism in stage presence, and originality and quality in their musicianship."

Michelle Kennedy

OSU Program Coordinator