Album Notes

The Stagger and Sway is an acoustic-driven, indie-rock band from Eugene, Oregon, performing in support of our upcoming EP Release, “Time Changes”.

Originally an acoustic duo formed in 2007, the Stagger and Sway brought songwriter Mike Last from behind the drum-kit of two prominent Eugene bands, to reveal his candid rock and roll song-craft that hits somewhere in the spectrum between Tom Petty and Uncle Tupelo.

Mike Last’s blend of americana and indie rock delivers intimate melodies with a unique bite. His vivid lyrics and frequent underscoring of atypical time signatures produce catchy hooks and toe-tapping turnabouts. While drumming with bands such as Dan Jones and the Squids, Saltlick, and Postal Joe, Mike has shared the stage with Built to Spill, Dinosaur Jr., Steve Wynn, and more.

Jerry “Groove” Abelin’s upright bass and pocket-style playing add a distinct, full-bodied anchor to the arrangements. Abelin is a Eugene music-scene veteran, having performed bass and vocals with celebrated bands Saltlick, John Shipe and the Scapegoats, Patrick Kavaney and the Last Drags, and Pocket. He has performed at many music festivals, and has opened for the likes of Tower of Power.

The band’s debut release, “Time Changes” was produced with Ehren Ebbage, and marks the launch of Working Stiff Records. This 6-song EP is a straightforward exploration of the quirks and commonalities of the everyday. Ranging from rocked up power-pop to alt-country bent ballads, “Time Changes” presents a cohesive collection of Mike Last’s true-to-life songwriting.

Following collaboration on the recording of “Time Changes”, Joe Knapp adds his versatile, nuanced guitar playing to the Stagger and Sway line-up. Joe’s intuitive sensibilities provide compelling atmospheric tones and dynamic guitar leads.

The Stagger and Sway performs around the Northwest as a full band or acoustic duo. “Time Changes” is available at CD Baby and Working Stiff Records.