Belltower: Artist in Residence

Written by Elijah McFarlane

As a member of Belltower, I was elated to learn we’d gotten the opportunity to spend some time in Shaniko, Oregon honing our craft and strengthening our bond as a band.  The time spent in the town was needed for a group that was spread a little thin, going from show to show, and in need of time to develop our sound. We had been gigging throughout a busy summer and while we were grateful to have work, some of the creative energy was beginning to fall by the wayside. One week in the serene desert landscape completely refueled our creative tanks and allowed us to have time to write, jam, record, and connect which was so desperately needed. The slow pace of life in Shaniko allowed us to take our time and be mindful of our music in a way that we hadn’t been able to for some time. 

Recording in the historic schoolhouse was such a treat. We set up our home base in the main hall of the schoolhouse where we could rehearse and record the tunes we’d been waiting to cut. Having the time and space to give them our all was incredible and we are proud of the production we got out of it. The energy of the building as well as the creaks and groans added to the feel of the songs so much and for that we are incredibly grateful. 

The folks we met along the way were so welcoming and kind and make me excited to return someday. The hospitality of the whole town made us feel comfortable and at home. Without their kindness, we wouldn’t have had the space to really connect as musicians and friends the way we did during our stay in Shaniko.