History
Tuatara
Tuatara is an experimental instrumental music group based in Seattle, Washington. The band's members have roots in notable acts such as R.E.M., The Minus 5, Critters Buggin, The Chills, and the Screaming Trees. The group's name was inspired by a reptile native to New Zealand, suggested by bassist Justin Harwood.
Formation and Early Work
The band was formed in 1996 by Peter Buck (guitar) of R.E.M., Barrett Martin (drums and percussion) of the Screaming Trees, Justin Harwood (bass guitar, double bass) of Luna and The Chills, and Skerik (saxophones) of Critters Buggin. Initially conceived as a project to create soundtrack music for friends, Tuatara evolved into an active band that performed occasional live shows. Their debut album, Breaking the Ethers, showcased a diverse sound influenced by a wide range of musical styles, from Lebanese and Asian music to traditional Western folk.
Expansion and Subsequent Releases
In 1998, the band expanded its lineup, adding Scott McCaughey on guitar, Steve Berlin on saxophone and flute, Craig Flory on clarinets and saxophones, Elizabeth Pupo-Walker on congas and percussion, and Mike Stone on drum kit. With Stone handling the drums, Barrett Martin shifted his focus to vibraphone and marimba. This larger ensemble released Trading With the Enemy, an album that incorporated more exotic instrumentation while continuing the band's tradition of drawing from various musical traditions.
Soundtrack Aspirations and Remixes
By 2001, Tuatara had grown to eleven members for the release of Cinemathique. This album was intended to fulfill the band's original goal of creating music for soundtracks. In 2003, a remix album titled The Loading Program was released.
Connections to Other Projects
Scott McCaughey and Peter Buck are also established members of the band The Minus 5, with Barrett Martin having contributed to their performances and recordings.
Discography
