Swimming In comprises Amanda Smith (vocals/lyrics) and Darren Emanuel (keys), Matthew Harris (guitar) and Juan Dozal (drums). Amanda and Darren met in 2003 through a mutual friend. Both came to the band from different but sympathetic directions. Amanda had previoulsy recorded and released a Dance/Pop record with Houston DJ Sean Carnahan and producer Nikolai Stepan but had decided to refocus in a different direction. After several years as a visual artist, Darren had recorded and released music for Houston's Two Words Records label and had contributed music to film and television productions. After writing and recording several songs in an electronic vein the duo began to gradually evolve their sound using an increasingly broader pallete that incoporated more vintage and acoustic instruments. Soon, the electric piano and acoustic bass became staples of their sound and the electronic aspects took on a supporting role. The result is a lush atmosphere with a quality of timelessness that evokes the sound of classic jazz and rock as much as it does modern electronic music. While 'The Other Piece" lyrically chronicles the tribulations of relationships at their end both as romantic relationships (Liked It Better, Not The Same) and as the unexpected passing of a friend (Godspeed) it also observes the treachery of family (Your Vertigo) and the selfishness of suicide (Signs of Life). Amanda's lyrics reveal an imperfect humanity and lay it bare, from the understated ferociousness of 'The Sting', to the damaged and delicate of 'Pearl'. Swimming In is currently in the studio working on their second album, while preparing for live dates this fall.
