Character

The instrumental rock outfit Character originated in Nashville, TN, during 2001 as a casual side endeavor among its participants. Guitarist William Tyler was then active with Lambchop, while Luke Schneider handled theremin and pedal steel guitar duties in Lylas, and guitarist Dave Paulson fronted the Privates. Keyboardist and guitarist Ryan Norris, bassist Eric Williams—grandson of country musician Merle Kilgore—and drummer Scott Martin rounded out the six-piece lineup. Their initial gathering took place at Williams’ Nashville residence during spring 2001, after which they tracked the EP A Flashing of Knives and Green Water for release on Set International Records in February 2002. Over time the project eclipsed the members’ other commitments, drawing the attention of Fictitious Records, the label co-owned by engineer and producer Roger Moutenot (Yo La Tengo, Sleater-Kinney, Lou Reed, Josh Rouse, Beulah). The imprint first put out a 7" single before issuing Character’s debut full-length, We Also Create False Promises, on November 16, 2004, which the group supported with its inaugural national tour.