The Band
CenterLine is an acoustic trio from Portland, Oregon; good friends who have been playing together for ten years. The centerpiece of their sound is rich lyrics, vocal harmonies and artistic acoustic guitar... very refreshing and down-home.
Mark’s influences:
“Early on I fell in love with the sound and music of The Buffalo Springfield. I kind of followed the members of Springfield into their next incarnations. To this day, I need a regular dose of Poco. I would also have to include The Beatles as a huge influence. But as bands come and go, I always tended to draw inspiration from the songwriters...some of my heroes being Lennon and McCartney, Bob Dylan, Jackson Browne, Mary Chapin Carpenter, Clay Smith, Richie Furay, Jan Stiver and so on. As I began to write my own material, the list grew to encompass most anyone and everyone willing to wear their heart on their sleeve. I think that that is one of the reasons I enjoy working with Jon so much.”
Angela’s bit:
I began singing very early. My folks had Peter, Paul and Mary songbooks on the piano and Simon & Garfunkel LPs. I’ve always been attracted to vocal harmonies and heartfelt lyrics. The Beatles, CSN and Heart were some of my favorites. I also enjoy Joan Baez, Joni Mitchell, Nicolette Larson, Karla Bonoff and Bonnie Raitt. For me, music is medicine; it's all about the way it makes you feel. I love to hear people say how good they feel after hearing us play. Music has also led me to some fine people, including my good friends Mark and Tammy, and my loving husband, Jon. Playing live has turned acquaintances into friends and friends into 'family'. That's what it's all about.
Jon's influences:
Considering that I was always in the school band (alto sax) rather than the choir, I guess it's a little strange (or maybe not) that I've always gravitated to artists whose songs have sophisticated or unusual lyrics and lots of harmonies. For me, that would include James Taylor, Crosby, Stills and Nash, Loggins and Messina, Poco, The Eagles, Paul Simon, Karla Bonoff, Carole King, America. Closer to home, I also admire Craig Carothers, Jim Walker, and Tim Ellis--seeing them play always makes me want to go home and pick up my guitar. And, of course, I remember hearing Mark play (back when our beards were more black than grey). To hear him then was an inspiration; to be playing alongside him now is an honor. And finally, the only thing better than being married to a woman so aptly named for an angel is the fact that she also sings like one. Thank you, Angela.