Make Music Salem

Easterly

Emerging from a 12-year hiatus, Salem-based power pop band Easterly returns with renewed momentum, now energized by drummer Ashley King (joined 2026). Formed 25 years ago by singer/songwriter Noah Hall with Andy Douthit, Kerry Kincanon, and Dan Miles, the band builds on a catalog of three releases and shows spanning San Francisco, Portland, and Seattle. Their 2003 self-titled debut was mixed by Jeff Stuart Saltzman (credits include Death Cab for Cutie and Stephen Malkmus), followed by a 2004 Japanese edition with additional mixes by T. W. Walsh of Pedro the Lion. With guitarist/vocalist Rich Swanger and musician/producer Stan Keightley, the band began work on an unreleased, lost album while expanding its live presence. By 2011’s Probability (LP) and Pieces (EP), Easterly had defined a self-produced, rhythmically driven power pop sound marked by tight guitar interplay and Noah’s enduringly melodic songs.