Fishbear is part of a growing number of bands – like Beirut, Gogol Bordello, and Vampire Weekend – that meld genres in creative ways to give an exciting new meaning to “world” music.

Formed in 2006 at an arts magnet school north of San Francisco, the band is rooted in musicality, an egalitarian chemistry, and openness to new forms. Each member of the band is fluent on more than one instrument. All listen to a wide range of music and blend into the Fishbear sound an array of influences they find intriguing. Elements of indie, ska, classic rock, klezmer, and jazz are at the core of the band’s unique and exuberant sound.

Band members collectively write Fishbear songs. This process doesn’t result in the lowest common denominator, but an ethic of spirited and free exchange in which battles are won and lost in the practice studio to determine which artistic elements survive and which are cast aside.

Distinctive in many senses, Fishbear's music appeals to a diverse fan base, with melodies, harmonies and virtuosity to please musically sophisticated tastes while exhibiting sufficient bite and attitude to attract younger audiences in search of release and wild dancing.

Recent performances include opening for Cake at the Fillmore in San Francisco, and an appearance at Yoshi’s in San Francisco.

Fishbear recently released its first EP, called THEEP, featuring five songs recorded at Skywalker Sound at Lucas Ranch. Two new songs will be available for free download from the band’s web site this spring. The band now has over 20 original songs.

The band’s summer 2010 tour itinerary includes a return engagement at the Fillmore in San Francisco with scheduled debut shows in Sacramento, Carson City, and various other locales up and down the West Coast.

Fishbear is:
Travis Hendrix, keyboards, sax, and vocals
Hadley Black, lead guitar and vocals
Josh Jackson, trumpet and vocals
Gaven Hayden-Town, bass and vocals
Sebastian Shader, trombone, mandolin, violin, vocals
Ben Weiner, drums and vocals