Accolade

Accolade Bio:

ACCOLADE is an independent San Francisco-based band founded by classical singer Stefanie Reneé and multi-instrumentalist Aaron Goldstein. Their dark and hauntingly beautiful compositions create an atmosphere of ancient times and mystic realms. The band released their debut full-length album in 2012 to favorable reviews in both U.S. and European press. Drummer Cade Burkhammer joined the band shortly thereafter, contributing his talents to their live shows and subsequent album release. ACCOLADE has toured extensively on the U.S. west coast and has had the pleasure of sharing the stage with such acts as Unwoman, The Darklings, The Deadfly Ensemble, and The Crystelles (Featuring Gitane Demone of Christian Death). Their music receives regular airplay on independent radio stations across the country and in Europe.

In December 2013, ACCOLADE released the digital version of their second full-length album, Legends, with a forthcoming limited edition vinyl LP, which will be available in early 2014. The idea behind Legends was inspired by the group’s visit to the Chalice Well in Glastonbury, England, one of the most magical places in the world. The history there is wonderfully rich in Arthurian legend and pagan traditions, which greatly inspired them to compose music focusing on the divine feminine. Legends also includes “The Lady of Shalott”, a 21-minute progressive rock epic written to the famous poem by Alfred, Lord Tennyson. This piece, written in four separate parts, contains such diverse instrumentation as harpsichord, piano, hand drums, recorder, and mandolin. Rich in counterpoint, lush melodies, and soaring angelic vocals, “The Lady of Shalott” takes up the entire second side of the vinyl record.

In April 2012, ACCOLADE released their first full-length album, Festivalia. This album, weaving enchanting melodies and carnival themes, features Stefanie’s ethereal coloratura soprano vocals and Aaron’s epic and intricate command of the antique reed organ, acoustic and electric guitars, bass guitar, drums and percussion. Included are twelve original compositions, as well as a cover of “Black Flame” by 70’s progressive rock legend Renaissance. Songs from Festivalia were also included on German magazine Sonic Seducer‘s compilation CD #134 and Dark Spy magazine’s compilation CD sampler, both in 2012.

ACCOLADE was also included on UK’s experimental legend Attrition’s cover album Wrapped in the Guise of My Friend (2009), with their version of the illustrious composition “The Silent Mind”.

The band is currently recording their third release, an EP based on original compositions by keyboardist/composer Sean Henry, set for release in spring 2014.