They get their name from a tucked away spot in a protected wilderness area East of Salem. Jawbone Flats is an old abandoned mining town surrounded by some of the most lush old growth forest you’ll find in the state. In one sense, it’s as Oregon as it gets.
The band that takes its name from the hidden treasure also fits a style that can makes you appreciate the outdoors, good friends and a cold beer.
The flexible core of 4 members, which can be augmented with feature and additional players to suit the show, have been playing with each other in a grab bag of local sounds and bands since 2000.
Jawbone Flats is a sound that’s meant to be heard outdoors with the sun shining and the crowd groovin'. They are also at home in a formerly-smoky saloon. The influences are vast, but it all comes back to Portland when they’re asked to describe their sound.
Chaz: “The love child of Wilco and Tom Petty.”
Chris: “I’d also put some of the Old Crow Medicine Show. Something on the gritty, acousticky side.”
Michael: “Americana”
Chris: “Old country, americana yeah. But it’s kinda like hill music you know.”
Chaz: “Hill, not hillbilly?”
Chris: “Hippiebilly.”
Chaz: “Ahh, Southeast sound.”
Championing causes is also a staple of the band such as: Portland Humane Society; Ecopalooza; and the Grasshopper Foundation (Michael Harper).
