Dorado by The Last Bison

Dorado is a constellation in the southern sky, drawing its name from the Portuguese word for Dolphinfish. For Ben Hardesty, front man of The Last Bison, Southern skies, constellations, the ocean, salt air, and fishing all supply great inspiration for music. Journeys south, especially a surf and fishing trip to Costa Rica with a band of friends a few years back, are the kinds of experiences in which his music finds its origin.

The songs from the EP Dorado speak of nostalgia and adventure with a childhood friend, of holding on to love in the midst of change, of discovering yourself while searching for something bigger than yourself, and the wonder of being fully brought to light by the one you love. The thread through the short collection of songs is the mysterious beauty of knowing someone and being fully known by them. Hardesty states, “I am an ever nostalgic person, constantly looking back on experiences that create and strengthen the bond between friends.” Gazing at constellations, and running through the jungles of Latin America are experiences that have now found musical expression.

Like the songs from their album, VA, the music on Dorado is full of more experimental percussive elements than their earlier work. Muted chimes and hammered banjo are blended with anthemic vocal harmonies, full strings, and explosive percussion in a way that transcends the folk sound into a far more cinematic rock.

The Last Bison’s mountain-top chamber music combines elements of alternative indie-folk with classical sensibilities. The music of this seven member band grew organically in the family living room and around backyard bonfires giving it a rootsy quality and yet the complex arrangements and refined strings seem just as appropriate in the symphony hall.

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