Kathryn Claire & THE WHYLANDS

Some bands play music. The Whylands live inside it.

The Portland-based project led by Kathryn Claire isn’t interested in coloring inside the lines. Their sound—raw, luminous, and ever-evolving—exists at the intersection of folk, chamber pop, cinematic indie, and something entirely their own. It’s a space built on collaboration, vulnerability, and fearless exploration. And it’s electric.

At the heart of the band is Kathryn Claire’s crystalline voice, poetic songwriting, and expressive violin playing. Her music draws from a deep well of classical and traditional influences, shaped by years of performance and collaboration around the globe. As the band’s creative anchor, Kathryn brings authenticity, energy, and emotional depth to every song.  

But The Whylands is more than a solo project with a backing band. This is a deeply collaborative unit, with every member—Allen Hunter on bass, Sid Ditson on violin, and Steve Drizos on drums—bringing their full creative selves into the mix.

Each member contributes a distinct musical voice to the ensemble, resulting in an intricate tapestry of sound that defies easy categorization. Their music flows effortlessly between indie folk, chamber pop, and cinematic roots music—anchored by poetic lyricism and a deep commitment to musical storytelling.

The Whylands is not just a band—it’s a sonic landscape where genre lines blur and emotional truths are explored through melody and harmony.