Echo Fund 2024 Recipients

Recipient: Ants Ants Ants

Project: Animated Music Video Production

About: Ants Ants Ants, the “kindie-ELO” as GeekDad’s Jeffery Cohen coined them, bring their signature harmonies and Beatles-inspired melodic charm to every song in their collection. Songwriters Johnny Clay (The Dimes), Dave Gulick and Nat Johnson (Derby), give stylistic nods to 1970’s era Sesame Street and School House Rock that’s not only for the kids in our lives, but the kids in all of us.

Recipient: Balamurali Balu

Project: Produce a world music video project showcasing traditional instruments performed by musicians from diverse ethnic backgrounds

About: Balamurali Balu (Bala) is a versatile film composer and music producer based in Portland, Oregon. As an alumnus of the renowned Berklee College of Music, Bala received comprehensive training in composition and production, which has propelled his career to new heights.  Bala is widely recognized for his extensive collaborations with esteemed local musicians and organizations. He has had the pleasure of working with talented members of the Oregon Symphony, Oregon Chorale, Taiko - Unit Souzou, Portland Kalai Kuzhu, and the Portland Chamber Orchestra, creating music that spans orchestral, pop, and world fusion genres. Continually expanding his artistic boundaries, he blends traditional instruments brought to Portland by immigrants from various countries, presenting the community with a unique fusion of global art forms. His work reflects a commitment to harmonizing tradition with modernity, pushing the boundaries of global music genres.  Beyond his individual accomplishments, Bala is deeply dedicated to fostering cultural exchange and inclusivity. He actively collaborates with communities and organizations such as The Immigrant Story, Portland Kalai Kuzhu, Greater Portland Tamil Sangam, and Tamil Arambap Palli, using music as a catalyst for social dialogue and cultural connection.

Recipient: BendreTheGiant

Project: Tracking a four song EP at local Portland recording studio Singing Sands

About: BendreTheGiant is a Portland-based ensemble that performs the music of Ben Estrada. The now six-piece band consists of Estrada as the lead songwriter and vocalist, with Delos Erickson on keys, Avery Scanlon on guitar, Ben Harris on woodwinds, Eli Hansen on bass, and Nate Hansen on drums.   In the last year, the group has recorded and released five songs, embarked on a Pacific Northwest tour, earned more than 500 monthly listeners on Spotify, and written an album’s worth of music. During the upcoming fall and winter period, BendreTheGiant will be recording a new EP and touring the west coast.

Recipient: Bory

Project: Finish recording and mix/master tracks for new album

About: Listening to a Bory song is like stepping into a universe all its own, a kaleidoscopic journey filled to the brim with effortless hooks and guitar lines that get stuck inside your head for weeks on end. Following 2021’s Sidelined EP, songwriter Brenden Ramirez emerges onto the scene as a devout student of the pop song on Who’s A Good Boy, the long-awaited debut LP from Bory. Showcasing both Ramirez’s knack for a great melody as well as his versatility around the fretboard, Who’s A Good Boy is an absolute tour de force, an album where the lines separating dream pop, indie rock, and power pop are blurred to the point of being indistinguishable.  ”For all of Bory’s self-deprecation, Who’s a Good Boy has a quiet confidence. Thematically, it’s concerned with being understood. Bory’s stylistic and emotional openness ensure that it is.” -Pitchfork  “Midtempo jangler that blasts off into the distortion zone partway through, seasoned with handclaps and Beatles-y harmonies.” - Stereogum

Recipient: DG3

Project: Promotional materials, including performance videos, an EPK, graphic design and branding collateral, and promotional photos, and a social media/marketing campaign to support the release of ”Hometown”, the debut recording by his contemporary jazz trio DG3.   

About: Darrell Grant has risen from the pianist in vocalist Betty Carter’s trio to an internationally-recognized performer, composer, and educator who channels the power of music to foster community, sustainability, and social justice. Committed to practicing civic engagement through artistry, Grant has driven pianos deep into state forests to support the environment, arranged protest anthems, and shared the stage with Bishop Desmond Tutu. He followed his 1994 New York Times Top 10 Jazz Album ”Black Art” with nine albums receiving critical acclaim from Jazziz, the Village Voice and DownBeat magazines. He has toured as a bandleader and solo artist throughout the U.S., Canada, and Europe, and performed with jazz luminaries Tony Williams, Brian Blade and Esperanza Spalding. Grant was inducted into the Jazz Society of Oregon Hall of Fame in 2009. He has been named Portland Jazz Hero by the Jazz Journalists Association (2017) and Portland Jazz Master by PDX Jazz (2019). He was a recipient of the 2020 Governor’s Arts Award, and a 2023 Oregon Arts Commission Individual Artist Fellowship. His groups include MJ New and the contemporary jazz trio DG3. 

Recipient: Fleur Du Mal

Project: Production of Debut Album ”Driad Eater”

About: FLEUR DU MAL is a singer-songwriter who explores themes of longing, power dynamics, and intimate reflections of her immediate realm. With a desire to illuminate hidden narratives, she haunts the main stage with compelling instrumentation and storytelling. At the tender age of 15, in an enforced solitary, she had only the company of herself, her guitar, and a vinyl version of “For Emma, Forever Ago” by Bon Iver. Through this experience blossomed an artist deeply attuned to her inner world. She is still inspired by this record, as well as Blind Pilot and Fleet Foxes. She was born in Fremont, Michigan, and now, at 22,  resides in Portland, Oregon. She just released her first single, The Basilisk, and readies her debut album, Driad Eater, with local producer Aaron Schmidt.

Recipient: Flying Caravan

Project: Record, mix, and master tracks for new album

About: Flying Caravan, founded by Azzy Isabell (lead vocalist/songwriter), is a whimsical music troupe based in Portland, OR fueled by the magic of adventure and nature’s wisdom. Their music is a captivating fusion of genres that combines the grooves of psychedelic folk rock with the entrancing spirit of jazz. Flying Caravan’s songs are crafted from a rich blend of vibrato vocals fluttering alongside electric guitars, keys, bass, and an array of percussion swirling together within a dance of interplay and imaginative voicings. Lush, layered melodies intertwine with spirited lyrics of healing - serving as a vehicle for transmutation that travels to realms both familiar and fantastical.   Their live shows are a mesmerizing journey marked by spontaneous improvisations and their crow-presenting performance artist that creates a one-of-a-kind experience. The sacred Crows Knows dances and flies alongside the audience with an emotionally-charged grace that mirrors Flying Caravan’s call for harmony. By honoring nature and the power of healing, Flying Caravan lifts off to reach the freedom of flight in mind, body, and spirit.

Recipient: Folkslinger

Project: Record, mix and master 3 tracks 

About: For over 30 years Mark MacMinn he/him has been performing.  From bands to solo to Folkslinger.  Learning and living musical chops and channels from Austin to Los Angeles, Nashville to Portland.  Dubbed a “hillbilly Elliott Smith,” and having the fortune to open for acts like Tom Morello/The Nightwatchman, The Lone Bellow, Mark Mallman, Buffalo Clover (early Margo Price) and Jim Lauderdale.  A songwriter that continues to craft an endless setlist of evocative, roots-inspired songs.  This flavor of Americana is heavy and sweet, heartbreaking country and fingerpicking folk.

Recipient: Fox Walker

Project: Make an in studio music video

About: Fox Walker is an R&B/Funk band influenced by Silk Sonic, Louis Cole and Thundercat. The band formed in 2022 when Alex Maxfield (synth/lead vocals) and Jamie Maxfield (bass/ vocals) moved to the area and decided to funk up their lives. They met with Bee Dunlap (guitar/vocals) who was the missing piece to help the soul train leave the station. Through their groovy music, Fox Walker strives to spread their message of community, authenticity and self-confidence. This music is best served live with a side of dancing, which is why they are working to amplify that live experience.    Alongside regular members, Miles VanDusen (drums) and Chance Hargrove (keys), Fox Walker strives to collaborate with as many members of the community as possible. A few examples being rapper Lola Bones, percussionist Jarred Clos and trumpetist Conor Adams (Left on Tenth), vocalist Kat (Snack), organist Mikey ShaSha (The Cascadians), saxophonist Will Hamel (Onion).    With an average of 30 shows a year they have provided support at venues such as Jack London Revue, Mississippi Studios and multiple shows at The Goodfoot. The next step for Fox Walker is to play for bigger crowds and take the band to headlining spots at Portland’s legendary rooms.

Recipient: Hayley Lynn

Project: Record final tracks for new album ’Firestarter’

About: Organically gripping and raw, Hayley Lynn’s sultry timbres extend through the various depths of her vocal range as she is soft-spoken but packs a punch when her lyrical motifs drop.  With a degree in Performance from UVIC in British Columbia, Lynn is no stranger to the stage. In 2016, the artist decided to step away from a successful acting trajectory to focus full time on music.  Her 2018 album, Bring on the Flames, landed her a licensing deal with Universal Music Group with placements on ABC, Big Ten Network, 700 Club, and Netflix Original shows, “The Pier” and “Money Heist.” In 2022, Lynn self released her second full length album ‘Horizon’.  Many of the songs came as a means to heal during the pandemic which was especially hard for herself and artists in that time.   Fueled by growth, empowerment, and feminine rage; Lynn is returning to her rock and roll roots with her third full length album ”Firestarter.” Echoing the sounds of icons like Joan Jett, the Pretenders, and Steve Nicks, ”Firestarter” makes the start of a bold new chapter in her artistic journey.

Recipient: Jacque Hammond

Project: Vinyl Production & Album Distribution Fees

About: Jacque Hammond is a musician, writer, and producer. Originally hailing from the Midwest, she now calls Portland her home. She developed a love for poetry and storytelling at an early age, and is drawn to exploring what connects us through song. Since relocating to Portland in 2021, she has performed with local artists Be Present Art Group, WRK!, and more. Her forthcoming album, In My Own Image, will be released in spring of 2025.

Recipient: Jessa Campbell & The Saplings

Project: A high-quality children’s song and music video highlighting the importance of shade equity, exploring how urban trees promote health, reduce climate impacts, and address social disparities in access to green infrastructure

About: Jessa Campbell, an Oregon-based performer and recording artist, brings a dynamic and versatile presence to the stage. From her captivating performances as a lead singer and dancer on Holland America Line cruises to providing backup vocals for Wayne Newton, Jessa has shone on various stages. She has headlined major festivals with LDW (a Talking Heads tribute) and embodies ”Stevie Nicks” in Taken by the Sky (Fleetwood Mac tribute).  Jessa’s passion for children’s music is deeply rooted in Pacific Northwest ecology. Through her project, Jessa Campbell & the Saplings, she uses music as a gateway for families to connect with the wonders of nature. Her debut album, Can You Feel It, earned a Silver Parent’s Choice Award, and her follow-up, Forest Flow, won the West Coast Songwriters’ Award and was a finalist in both the John Lennon and Great American Songwriting Contests. With three songs in heavy rotation on SiriusXM’s Kids Place Live, Forest Flow has also been featured in international film festivals and recognized as a High Five Album of the Week on Kinderling Kids Radio.  Recently invited to the Arts for Learning Northwest roster, Jessa is thrilled to continue inspiring families through music and nature education in Portland Public Schools.

Recipient: Lillian Sawyer

Project: Record the final 4 tracks for EP of original instrumental folk music at Dead Aunt Thelma’s in Portland

About: Lillian Sawyer is a fiddler, educator, and composer based out of Portland, Oregon. A graduate of Berklee College of Music, Lillian has performed with renowned folk musicians such as Darol Anger, Joe K. Walsh, Grant Gordy, Ben Krakauer and more in addition to touring both nationally and internationally with award-winning bands such as Never Come Down and Fog Holler.   Now with decades of experience performing and thousands of shows under her belt she aims to stamp out her own mark in the music world and release an EP of her own original tunes and instrumentals. Featuring her band of premier Portland instrumentalists, Joe Suskind, Josiah Payne, and Ben Ticknor she demonstrates her unique approach to contemporary instrumental folk music and what a lifetime of dedication to ones’ craft looks like.

Recipient: Lisa Molinaro

Project: Recording, Mixing and Mastering of Debut LP

About: Lisa Molinaro is a multi-instrumentalist and contemporary composer.  A longtime member of Modest Mouse and founding member of Talkdemonic, Lisa has performed with The National and The Decemberists, appearing on Fallon, Letterman, Kimmel late night shows.  Lias’s crunchy distorted solos, ribbony-smooth string layers and honeyed vocals are featured on dozens of artist recordings like Modest Mouse, The Decemberists, Y La Bamba, and Laura Gibson.  Talkdemonic toured supporting The National, Modest Mouse, The Flaming Lips, and M83.  In 2012 Lisa joined Modest Mouse on vocals, strings, keys, bass and guitar, and co-wrote extensively on Modest Mouse’s “Strangers To Ourselves” and “The Golden Casket”.  Lisa collaborated in 2012 with Isaac Brock on the score for “Queens of Country”, starring Lizzy Kaplan and Ron Livingston. She composed her debut feature film score for ”Savage Midlife” (2025). Lisa’s music will be featured on the upcoming soundtrack for ”Where The Devil Lays His Head” starring Stephen Dorff, Rosanna Arquette and Michael Shannon. She is featured alongside such artists as John McEntire (Tortoise), Nels Cline, Lee Ranaldo, Black Heart Procession and more. Lisa writes moody rock and wistful chamber pop. Her skillful strings and smooth vocals appear in force on her gorgeous debut single ”Deceptive Cure”.

Recipient: Misled Bayonets

Project: Mixing and mastering of remaining songs on new album

About: Myles de Bastion is a Deaf musician, based in Portland, Oregon, whose work marries auditory music to visual cymatic stimulation and representation to create multi-sensory and fully inclusive experiences for all. His childhood fascination with the tactile elements of music led him to experiment with various instruments over the years, eventually leading him to his love of the electric guitar for its unique ability to manipulate sound, texture, and vibration.  In addition to being a touring musician and recording artist, Myles is the inventor of the Dusic (”Deaf Music”) Cube, which smoothly translates sound into light and vibration. He went on to develop Audiolux Devices, a producer of professional audiovisual stompbox technology that furthers a similar spirit of inclusion. Just before the COVID-19 pandemic, the Bodecker Foundation invited Myles, as an artist-in-residence, to record his first full album and produce an accompanying cymatic light show for its music. This project, produced with Chris Funk of the Decemberists (for whom Myles was invited to open on tour), was disrupted by the pandemic, and now Myles’s work sits waiting, at the foundation, to be completed with Echo Fund support.

Recipient: Okaidja Afroso

Project: Album Production for “Sabala,” the final chapter of Ancient Africa Wisdom Trilogy

About: Okaidja is a multi-instrumentalist, Afro-Classical, Afro-Jazz, Ambient music, Singer-Songwriter and Traditional Dancer from Ghana, West Africa. His unique artistic vision has led him to combine his native rhythms with unforeseen pairings of musical flavors. His sound is a spicy fusion of Ghanaian music with diverse cross-cultural influences. Although most of Okaidja’s hypnotic arrangements are sung in his native language, the meaning shines through. His calling and life purpose is to bring us all together so that we can laugh and grieve and dance and forge forward together, in community.

Recipient: PRESIDIO

Project: Production of remaining 6 songs on upcoming album to be released in 2025

About: PRESIDIO is the Portland-based rock project of Gabriella De La Cruz and Will Zesiger. With a sound that ranges from delicate folk to explosive psych-rock, their music explores the depths of their experience through a lens of unflinching honesty and catharsis. Their debut EP, Telepathy, released in mid 2020, garnered over 150,000 streams on Spotify. Inspired by their own psychedelic therapy journeys, the band has dived into a more dynamic sonic palette – one that is both intimate and explosive.

Recipient: T.F. Ivan

Project: A conceptual Horror-Punk Rap album recorded to commercial standard for use in Film and Television

About: That Fucking Ivan (T.F. Ivan) is a Portland based Punk-Rapper who merges the philosophy of anti-authoritarian punk with underground hip-hop. Hailing from Atlanta GA, a dedicated M.C. committed to the art of folk-telling.   Since 2017, T.F.I. has released 4 projects as a solo artist; “Clear Your Mind Vol. 1” (2017), “Art & Carcinogens” (2018) , “Clear Your Mind Vol. 2” (2019), and “Live At The Star Theater”(2021). One album with his side project Sacred Sages was released in 2019; “Ludonarritive Dissonance”. As half of the hybrid hardcore Death-Rap group, Cisters, he released 3 projects; ”Kill Hipsters” (2020), ”Catacombs & Cataclysms” (2021) and the ”Sex Work Is Real Work Mixtape”(2022).  In total, 8 underground releases to date.   That Fucking Ivan’s debut album “SPOOKY SHIT, SUMMER NIGHTS, & HOUSE-PARTIES” is completely written and ready to record. Set for release Summer 2025.

Recipient: The Ghost of James Jones

Project: Record a 10 song release for Spring Time 2025, including tracking, mixing and mastering

About: The Ghost of James Jones is an Americana band with Latino and garage-rock tendencies mixed in with the thread of country music. They’ve been performing since last year(under James Jones and the Chupacabras) and have played at several venues around the Portland area, including the Landmark Saloon, Polaris Hall, Star Theater, and the Laurelthirst Pub, to name a few. The band explores the darker, more gothic themes in country music, think JJ Cale meets NIck Cave, Los Lobos and Buck Owens.

Recipient: These Cursed Hands

Project: Music Video Production

About: These Cursed Hands is a Portland-based melodic death metal band that has been rocking venues in the pacific northwest since 2022. Playing an energetic mix of traditional melodeath tinged with more modern metal influences, their crushing sound and bombastic stage show has seen them opening for major metal acts such as Crypta, Great American Ghost, and 2Shadows.  Originally started by Travis Cody (drums) and Wes Griswold (guitar) in Trav’s garage in Oregon City, the band really found its sound with the addition of Von-Aldrynne Eslava (vocals) in late 2022. Now having added Danny Hettum on bass, These Cursed Hands has been bringing metal to the masses all over the Portland area.

Recipient: Triple Lutz

Project: Music Video Production

About: Triple Lutz is Portland, Oregon’s own (and only) Tonya Harding-core band. Half queer, half femme, and half bald, this punk rock powerhouse has been a staple of the Portland music scene since 2017. Full of frenzied energy and anthemic fury, these rippers never fail to deliver a hot-blooded and impassioned performance, leaving first-timers both enthralled and invested. With deceivingly intricate arrangements and spectacular breakdowns, Triple Lutz has one hell of a tight rhythm section. Stylistically, their music is constantly straddling the line between early 80s hardcore and more technical punk--a well-suited soundscape for their urgent and earnest lyrics, an existential rumination on topics that range from injustice, hypocrisy, and mental health to climate change and the dark future of AI. With an unreleased full length waiting in the wings, Triple Lutz is poised to land their greatest jump yet.

Recipient: Vonnie Kyle

Project: Complete production of new EP, The Bell Tower

About: Portland rock artist Vonnie Kyle is known for her powerful voice and bold sound. Influenced by Queens of the Stone Age and St. Vincent, she unites hard rock with dynamic storytelling and raw intensity

Congratulations to all of these artists!