Pullman is a band on the
Thrilljockey record label, recording mostly
acoustic instrumentals that meander in a way not unlike
John Fahey. Their focus is primarily one of
texture and
environment.
They have released two albums. In 1997, Turnstiles and Junkpiles. This album had nothing but acoustic instruments: bass, guitar, mandolin, Irish Bazouki, Dobro, and little to no drums. There is a song on this album that recalls for me the impossible beauty of an ideally clean Venice, Italy -- "Lyasnya." The entire album was recorded in a loft using two very nice microphones. At times you can hear them creak in their chairs as they move to the music. Oh so choice.
Viewfinder was released in 2001, featuring subtle electric and electronic instruments to aid in drone-like texture. The pieces are still beautiful and often bring about Eastern European sounds. This album is a bit more psychedelic and often more Tortoise-like than Turnstiles. Douglas McCombs, master of the bass guitar plucks meaningful phrases in "Or Otherwise," a method of slow contemplation. The vinyl version of this album has four bonus tracks.
Members of Pullman include: