Portland Area Band Fallstar Climbs to New Heights by Jameson Ketchum

Originally formed in 2005 in Portland, Oregon, Fallstar has gone through some ups and downs like any other band but has remained dedicated to their goals while quickly becoming one of the most respected and enjoyed acts in the Portland scene. The five-piece cares deeply about not only the quality of their product but the fans who embrace them just as lovingly. The experience of seeing them live is never a disappointment as they give 110% each time out of the gate. Their album “Your Eyes Don’t Lie” has one particular highlight which is in fact the entire album. Fallstar has zero misses on their stunning debut as vocalist Chris Ratzlaff gives his all to the powerful vocals and inspiring lyrics that soar among the hard-hitting but serene melodies. Fallstar is currently writing and recording and has picked up several new members including guitarist, Jason Brown, bassist Bryan Ratzslaff and drummer Robert Lasco. With these new additions to the Fallstar line-up there is no doubt that you will be hearing some new influences in the band’s follow up E.P.

2008 has sparked great changes in the world of Fallstar. The loss of several long term members forced the band (at this time consisting only of vocalist Chris Ratzlaff and guitarist Justin Haag) to start thinking seriously about the next step in the band’s future. Haag and Ratzlaff, who are also the only founding members remaining, decided to recruit Ratzlaff’s brother Bryan to fill in at bass and long time friend, Lasco, to sit behind the kit. The full lineup was completed just before summer began with the addition of guitarist, Brown. The now completed and self-assured Fallstar began practicing ceaselessly to guarantee that their new members became acclimated with their older songs as well as hash out ideas regarding new material. Ratzlaff, who is said to be a tireless writer, leads the five-piece with intense vocals and challenging lyrics while the rest of the guys provide the perfect backdrop.
         The new members in the Fallstar family bring their own brand of electricity that seamlessly aligns with Haag and Ratzlaff. Lasco lays the heavy groundwork from behind the kit as Ratzlaff (bass) and Brown prove themselves night after night as true showmen. Fallstar’s level of intensity is unmatched in the scene today. These guys are extremely talented artists who care deeply about not only the quality of their product, but the fans who embrace them just as lovingly. This band has a message, a path, and a will to continue to follow wherever the their path may lead them. Fallstar’s dedication to their fans, their music, and above all else, their faith, makes this Northwest band a force that demands your attention, and once they have it, they will surely not disappoint.
*Fallstar is for fans of bands such as The Devil Wears Prada and Underoath.

Written by Jameson Ketchum