BIO

Sam Densmore's latest single release, Buck Up Buttercup (Dec. 2020), is a Psychedelic Twang Rock Departure from his previous work as a solo artist. Manning all instruments while eschewing vocals altogether, The Bandcamp exclusive release calls to mind 60's surf rock and the spaghetti western productions of Ennio Morricone.

In 2019, folk rock songwriter Sam Densmore performed over 130 shows including dates in Oregon, Washington, Montana, Alaska, Germany, Austria, Switzerland & the Czech Republic! Sam performed in venues large and small; house concerts, wineries, breweries, dive bars, night clubs, music performance halls, outdoor summer festivals and more as a solo, duo, and full band act. Venues of note included the Portland Folk Festival, Haus Der Musik (Vienna, AT), residencies at McMenamins Al’s Den and Rock Creek Tavern, and opening slots for The Posies, Gabby Holt, and Bootes Void. His 2019 release, "Black Velvet Unicorn" was produced by Dominik Schmidt and mixed by Jeremy Sherrer (Modest Mouse/Dandy Warhols) and Rick Parker (Lord Huron/Black Rebel Motorcycle Club). In 2019, his Spotify feed had over 35,000 streams in 43 countries. The upbeat music video and single, "Damn The Consequences" premiered in February 2019 on the popular music blog Pop Matters, to rave reviews. The video has been the subject of over 12k YouTube views and over 2K Facebook views.

Sam's songs have been placed in the Showtime TV series 'Shameless' and the film 'Bear City'.

Sam's currently preparing for US tour dates in 2020. Set lists include songs from his recent EP release, Black Velvet Unicorn, new/unreleased songs, and songs from his previous releases.

Previous Solo Releases include:

2012 Ku Thar Tik/Sad Songs For A Sad World/Cat Years Double EP

2013 Quit Work Make Music EP Split with Curtis Irie

2017 Heavy Mellow - Selections 2010 - 2017

2017 Open Marriage

2019 Damn The Consequences (Single)

2019 Transitional Piece (Single)

2019 Black Velvet Unicorn EP

"This Portland singer-songwriter makes somewhat anxious indie pop and I’m all about it. Sam Densmore is not about lighthearted, hook-heavy radio jams. This is meaty indie pop to make you think as you bounce down the street with your headphones on." - YabYum

"Sam Densmore's "Damn the Consequences", taken from his upcoming EP, Black Velvet Unicorn, is a decidedly confident and positive pop song. Absent of the frets and worries of contemporary times, the song celebrates the delicate nature of life, no matter the moment, no matter the era. Why not celebrate? Though such notions can seem trite, over-simplified, in Densmore's capable hands the carpe diem cry has never seemed more appropriate. And, yes, damning the consequences may have its price but why not try anyway?

The new video from the Portland, Oregon resident, was directed by Colin Robson. Speaking about the song, Densmore said, "Until 2012, I'd always been in rock bands. Now, after years of making mostly self-recorded, deliberately retro/lo-fi, acoustic based songwriter records, 'Damn the Consequences' is a departure, but also a full circle step back into the modern world for me. There's nothing more satisfying than rocking out with a great band! I wanted to make a video that's inclusive, encourages people to get involved, sing along, and own the song for themselves. Both the song and video are a bit of introverted self-examination, sublimated into extroverted escapism in these trying times." JEDD BEAUDOIN, Pop Matters, 02/27/2019

"Sam Densmore’s new single “Damn the Consequences” puts him squarely in the genre of pop philosopher. The new single has sensibility of Elvis Costello, but with the rich instrumental layering of R.E.M., and a vocal timbre that sounds just a tad like a combination of Michael Stipe and Tom Petty. But the lyrics are what make this song really special. It’s a kind of coming of age song, a song with brilliant lyrics that shine with the wisdom gained from making it to middle age. He rhymes “love, like time, is a construct of the mind” in catchy and insightful opening lines. The chorus, “live like there’s no tomorrow,” and “damn the consequences, and regrets too” could be a calling to pursue the frivolous behavior of youth or to set out on a full on mid-life crisis." Ramune Nagisetty, Portland Notes, 03/26/19

"Since 2012, Oregon-born folk rocker Sam Densmore has been honoring his audience with unique pieces of music. He is considered one of the most adventurous songwriters in a US state, known for a large and qualitative musical offering. In 2017, Densmore's debut album "Open Marriage" was released, a melancholy and self-reflective song collection. After the debut, the musician drew new energy for an EP - the soon to be released "Black Velvet Unicorn". Thereupon Densmore promises a firework of electronic pop-rock vibe at almost gemeabefährlich high energy level. "

https://www.wienholding.at/

Vienna, AT 10/15/19

"Densmore's latest tracks have been prominently mixed - Jeremy Sherrer has been featured on the records of Gossip, Dandy Warhol and Modest Mouse. In the music video for "Damn The Consequences," Sam Densmore's brand-new single, the singer encourages the characters to celebrate as if there were no consequences, no problems, no questions. Of course, this message is already available from countless artists in countless variations and designs. But the folk rocker from Oregon writes the listener a lot of subtext behind the ears, äääh between the lines. Yes to excess, but do not forget the consequences. If you drown out the problems, you can assume that they are still there the next day - including atom cat! What does Sam Densmore want to tell us with his party number? The beauty of music is that everyone can write their own story to a song. It's best for everyone to find out for themselves!" HB*People, Bremen, DE 9/17/19

It is clear that the EP "Black Velvet Unicorn", which will be released in October, represents a (further) journey compared to his very self-reflective debut album "Open Marriage". Sam Densmore has gained new energy after his (or just by being) first work. The point is, this is not about new energy for the old, it's about a new kind of energy. Something new. "

"Sam Densmore has deep Pacific Northwest roots, and serious chops. Catchy, folk-leaning songs with rock-n-roll flavor from Portland, Oregon. A consummate entertainer!" Pourhouse, Oct 2019

"Portland based singer-songwriter Sam Densmore has produced a number of albums since he first started his career in music and it was with grateful hands that we picked up his latest offering, Open Marriage; a cheerful and eager album filled with experimental folk and country vibes that will help get your blood pumping.

Densmore is a powerful and highly charged musician with a wealth of talent at his disposal. Open Marriage is flooded with jovial, heartfelt and uplifting melodies that warm you to the core. His music is jubilant, bouncing along and yet feels somewhat rough around the edges, like his work is still adapting to its own nature as it reaches your ears. Densmore renders this with soft and simple guitar melodies that are burning with passion and are delivered with such determination and an experimental nature that they become almost monumental. There is a clearly defined core to his work that sites around folk and country music but it readily departs from this with synthesizers and even gospel organs. The result is a rich amalgamation of sounds that cycle through pop, jazz and even ska before returning home to folk.

Densmore himself brings his music to life with a playful flourish and ties it all together with his earnest, tender, almost smoky vocals. Singing with a distinct passion and vigour, Densmore’s voice seems to seat itself somewhere between the warming nature of Darren Black and the mischievous lilt of Johnathan Coulton – it’s slightly rasped, incredibly fun and undeniably passionate. It’s a charismatic and warming voice that demands attention and really makes you want to hear what he has to say.

Open Marriage is a perfect fusion of sounds that all centre themselves around folk and country. There is a deep vein of music steeped in the heritage of these genres but allowed the room to breathe and intermingle with new and exciting tones." Joe Knipe Artree (UK) May 17, 2017

"As a complete piece, it definitely feels like the mark of a man who has come to terms with a very difficult thing, and it’s hard not to get sucked in. If you’ve recently been dumped, or even had to break up with someone, I would be amazed if you didn’t come out of the other side of this LP feeling a bit better about it." Cultured Vultures, 4/19/17

"Sam Densmore is set to release his fourth full-length album, Open Marriage, later this month. It’s the Coos Bay native’s first new material in almost five years, and it finds the songwriter in a surprisingly raw and emotional state. According to the record’s press release, Densmore wrote the new songs largely about the demise of his own marriage:

Featuring various musings on his own open marriage - which ended in separation two years ago - the album is Densmore’s processing of that situation. Between the upbeat energy produced by his band and the singer’s ability to sarcastically quip now at his experiences, it seems safe to say that the demons were successfully exorcised through the creation of Open Marriage.

Produced in Portland with help from Mike Coykendall (M. Ward, Beth Orton, Bright Eyes), the album’s features 10 folk rock tracks, including this warm and wistful song “Up All Night.” "- Oregon Public Broadcasting, 4/15/2017

"This rootsy alternative country is new territory for Sam Densmore but he seems right at home under the canopy of Americana. His track "Flood You" recently premiered on Glide Magazine where the reception was warm. The track swoons between crunchy guitar riffs and infectious rhythms, a nice mix for the fan who loves the crunchy reverb of garage rock and the light melodies of folk." - nextnorthwest.com NOV 2016

"Oregon native Sam Densmore has been a fixture in the Portland music scene for a handful of years now, playing in a slew of alternative bands throughout the ‘90s and embracing a defining era in the Pacific Northwest’s musical heritage. These days Densmore leans less on his rock band past and more on his folky future as a solo artist. Much of his solo work is just that, solo, but his upcoming album Open Marriage, the fourth release under his own name, marks his first recordings with a full band in 5 years. Today Glide Magazine is presenting an exclusive first listen of the first single off Open Marriage, “Flood You”, which comes out December 2nd on Buddy Cat Music. The catchy tune kicks off with an acoustic guitar walkup before diving into overdriven electric guitar and an infectious groove, giving the tune a rootsy power pop sound that marks something of a departure from Densmore’s folkier material. Reflecting on the song, Densmore says, “‘Flood You’ is about emotions and how they are like water – they ebb and flow , they sublimate, they change form and can overwhelm you, especially when suppressed.” Glide Magazine, NOV 2016 "

"Heavy Mellow" (set for March 2017 release) is an indie folk rock compilation album highlighting solo performance tracks from 2010 to present. The set gives a solid introduction to Densmore's crisp, laidback vocal style and lyric writing. Songs such as "She's Going to Want You" and "Flea Circus Star" capture a grown-up sensitivity and humor on themes of love and life. Densmore says he likes to tell stories, sing with feeling and make connections. His melodies make it easy to sing along with lyrics that feel familiar but avoid cliché. The song "Up All Night" reflects on the trouble spots that creep into relationships, with the pivotal line: "This life is a dance. We stumble around while we're working it out." "I'm trying to be in the moment with people, connect with people and allow the work to live," he said. " Geneva Miller, The World News, Oct. 5, 2016

"Densmore has been part of the Portland music scene for quite a while, and it's easy to see (and hear) why he's stuck around the way he has." Portland Mercury, July 2016

"Sam Densmore is a singer-songwriter from Portland, and his music is warm and inviting, like a well-worn blanket that’s always in reach. He put a new song up on his Bandcamp late last year, but I spent considerably more time with his 2012 album “Ku-thar’-tik,” mainly because I had a hard time turning it off. The guy takes basic tools — voice, words, melodies, plus an acoustic guitar played with some percussive oomph — and spins some pretty spellbinding songs that sound like a collision of Wilco’s Jeff Tweedy (when he’s playing solo), David Bowie’s spacey pop sensibility, a bit of R.E.M.’s organic jangle and something else that I can’t quite put my finger on. Seriously, it’s on the tip of my tongue. I hear it in the melodies and phrasing all across “Ku-thar’-tik” and it brings to mind someone singing something, but that vision stays just out of focus. Which is probably just as well; who wants to be compared to a bunch of other musicians anyway? Besides, the fact that Densmore’s songs feel comfortable and familiar without sounding like every other folk-pop singer to roll through Bend is what makes him interesting. And worth checking out. " — Ben Salmon, Bend Bulletin, Published Mar 6, 2015

"When you name an album Quit Work Make Music, you create a to-do list for yourself. You’ve got to make sure that the lyrics are the right amount of nonchalant, that the tracks flow smoothly, and that you’ve captured a carefree demeanor that screams “cool.” It may seem like a lot for something that’s meant to be natural, but for the right artist or group everything will fall into place the way it’s supposed to. Sam Densmore and Curtis Irie showcase just how well they’ve captured cool, calm, and collected in this collaborative effort.This album sounds like you’re listening in on a Friday night basement jam session for hip kids’ ears only. The lead vocal is casual, gentle and will mellow any listener out. Funky guitar playing is the key driving force of the entire album and keeps your foot tapping. Accenting the lead vocal are harmonies and background vocals that give the songs a finishing touch.
“It’s All Been Said” starts off the album by revealing the group’s personality through the combination of composition, ambiguous lyrics, and soft singing. The album’s most ethereal track, “Who,” sits on the borderline of trippy. “Sunday Dinner” is laid-back but exudes rebellion. Densmore and Irie get gritty in “Oregon Blues” with a soulful vocal line, honky-tonk guitar, and harmonica. The track pays homage to the distinguishably slick sound of the blues.Quit Work Make Music is perfectly titled due to the tranquil mood of the album. You’ll find yourself dreading the demands of a productive day, and instead hoping for days of untroubled freedom. While abandoning your day job isn’t possible for most, at least we can listen along and escape for a bit. " In A Word: Peaceful—by Priscilla Cordero, July 16, 2014, Aquarian Weekly

"Portland, OR based songwriters Sam Densmore (Silverhawk) and Curtis Irie (Irie Idea) release their collaborative effort Quit Work Make Music on June 10th. With influences ranging from indie folk and rock, to blues and early Jamaican music, the duo have packed enough flavor in Quit Work Make Music to send your tastebuds into overdrive. Today, Earbuddy is excited to premiere the somewhat sad, country-esque single, “Flea Circus Star”. " - Earbuddy, Nick Krenn 5/10/14

"Densmore’s pleasant voice and smartly succinct songwriting make for a strong and impressive double whammy. Moreover, Densmore plays a mean acoustic guitar and never degenerates into mushy cliché at any point..."—Jersey Beat - Joe Wawrzyniak

"Beautiful chord changes and harmonies are heard throughout the course of [Ku-Thar'-Tik] and the simplicity forces you to focus on the message without being distracted by the smoke and mirrors of glitzy production tricks." - Now This Rocks

"Is it folk? Rock? Americana? Something else? Yes. Densmore sounds like he's simply tossing off song after song. But after a while, it becomes apparent how good these pieces really are. No matter how you might classify this release, it's a winner."—Aiding & Abetting Guest Columnist

"Overall, The Forest of the Trees isn’t an album to listen to if you want to jump around. However, if you’re hangin’ out with a few friends you can play for them one of the best new albums of the year." Jersey Beat - Phil Rainone

“The melodies are huge, the lyrics begging for a throughway sing-a-long...Melancholy yet hopeful, Stipe-like but original.”—Pop Matters - Eamon P. Joyce

"Silverhawk will stun you like a beautiful new wave pop sunburst.. "Flowers in June" embodying the rhythmic propulsion and chorus perfection...."—CMJ New Music Report - Peter Orlov

"Sam and John Densmore...craft a distinctively millennial brand of Americana—think Mellow Gold-era Beck, minus the ironic rapping. Twangy guitars brush up against glam swagger and an Alex Chilton-ish knack for melody, psychedelic flourishes and lyrics about drinking, being drunk, and dealing with the hangover."—Willamette Week - Matthew Singer

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BIO