Who is Hem?
Hem is a band that creates dreamy, ethereal music. Some describe their sound as alt-country folk pop orchestrated lullabies for adults, but I just call it good, comforting, and timeless. The core band lineup includes Sally Ellyson (Vocals), Dan Messe (Piano, Glockenspiel, Celeste, Harmony Vocals), Gary Maurer (Guitar, Mandolin, Harmonica, Harmony Vocals), and Steve Curtis (Guitar, Mandolin, Harmony Vocals). The current recording/touring band also includes Mark Brotter (Drums, Percussion), Bob Hoffnar (Pedal Steel Guitar, Dobro), George Rush (Bass), Heather Zimmerman (Violin), and Dawn Landes (Harmony Vocals, Glockenspiel). Starting in late 2006 the band has recorded/toured with Sarah Beaty (Clarinet), Claudia Chopek (Violin), and Anna Reinersman (Harp). Catherine Popper played upright bass with Hem on their albums and on tour in 2004 and eariler. John Flaugher played upright bass on some 2004-2005 US dates, and Greg Pliska (who’s arranged the orchestra on most album songs since Rabbit