Chris Harford: The Multidisciplinary Artist of Rock, Folk, and Fine Art
Chris Harford is a versatile American creative whose career spans the realms of music and visual art. As a singer, songwriter, guitarist, and painter, Harford has carved out a unique space in the artistic landscape, blending diverse genres and mediums to create a body of work that defies simple categorization.
The New Yorker has noted Harford's ability to operate in a "free zone" outside traditional rock categories, blending elements of country, seventies rock, folk, and post-punk. His vocal style is often described as gruff yet plaintive, drawing comparisons to the legendary Neil Young, while National Public Radio (NPR) has characterized his music as simultaneously "beautiful, heart-rending and soulful" and "dark, rocking and dangerous."
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Key Facts
- Musical Style: A hybrid of country, folk, post-punk, and 1970s rock.
- Notable Project: Leads the "revolving door" ensemble known as The Band of Changes.
- Major Label Debut: Released Be Headed on Elektra Records in 1992.
- Visual Arts: An accomplished painter with over 20 gallery exhibits.
- Education: Attended Princeton High School, Connecticut College, and the Massachusetts College of Art and Design.
Musical Journey and Collaborations
Early Career and Three Colors
Harford's musical roots trace back to the early 1980s in Boston, where he was a member of the band Three Colors. This group included saxophonist Dana Colley, who later joined the band Morphine, and Hub Moore. Harford's professional relationship with Moore continued into 1996, when he produced Moore's major label debut on Slash/London Records.
The Band of Changes
Central to Harford's recording history is The Band of Changes, a conceptual backing group designed as a "revolving door" for talented musicians. This flexible lineup has featured a prestigious array of artists, including:
- Kevin Salem and Jane Scarpantoni
- Dave Dreiwitz and Dean Ween (members of Ween)
- Richard Thompson and Michael Hampton
- Joe Russo, Eric Slick, Scott Metzger, and Robert Seahag Mangano
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Discography and Production
Harford's recording career began with a major label presence but evolved into a prolific independent trajectory. After releasing Be Headed via Elektra Records in 1992, he transitioned to independent releases, including titles such as Comet, Wake, and Time Warp Deck. His 2006 studio album, Looking Out For Number 6, was released by Schnitzel Records Ltd and produced by Dean Ween, who also provided lead guitar and drums.
Beyond his own work, Harford has contributed to other artists' projects, serving as a producer and drummer for Ashton Freeman's 2016 album You Make Me Happy.
| Year | Album | Label | Project |
|---|---|---|---|
| 1992 | Be Headed | Elektra Records | Band of Changes |
| 1999 | Comet | Black Shepherd | Solo |
| 1999 | Band of Changes | Black Shepherd | Band of Changes |
| 2006 | Looking Out For Number Six | Schnitzel Records | Solo |
| 2017 | Horn of Plenty | Soul Selects Records | Solo |
| 2018 | Shimmering Waste | Soul Selects Records | Solo |
Art and Athletics
Harford's creativity extends beyond sound. He is a recognized painter whose work was first showcased at the iconic New York City rock club CBGB's. Since then, he has held more than 20 exhibitions at various galleries, including Gerald Peters in New York City and Salt Philadelphia.
In addition to his artistic pursuits, Harford has a background in athletics. He has served as a lacrosse coach for both high school and college levels, working with Princeton High School in New Jersey, Hendrix College in Arkansas, and Ransom Everglades in Florida.
Frequently Asked Questions
What genres define Chris Harford's music?
His music is a blend of several styles, including country, folk, post-punk, and 1970s rock, often described as soulful and heart-rending.
Who is The Band of Changes?
The Band of Changes is Harford's backing ensemble, which operates as a revolving door of musicians, featuring notable collaborators like Dean Ween and Richard Thompson.
Where did Chris Harford study?
He attended Princeton High School, followed by Connecticut College and the Massachusetts College of Art and Design.
Has Chris Harford exhibited his art in galleries?
Yes, he has had over 20 exhibits, starting at CBGB's and continuing through galleries such as Salt Philadelphia and Gerald Peters in New York City.
What other roles has Chris Harford held outside of performing?
Harford has worked as a music producer and has also coached lacrosse at the high school and collegiate levels.