Portland, Oregon’s Federale plays music that evokes 1960s Italian-made Western films. Formed in 2005 by six musicians, including members of The Brian Jonestown Massacre, Federale set out re-capture the haunting, violent atmosphere illustrated in classic films such as “A Fistful of Dollars" and "Once Upon a Time in the West." Federale’s orchestral sound is created by combining the sounds of Native American flutes, trumpets, keyboards, a male choir, timpani and melodic whistling, all rounded out with dueling drums and guitars. On stage, Federale’s lively shows can include as many as fourteen.
In 2008, after settling on its current lineup, Federale released its first record, "La Rayar: A Tale of Revenge." La Rayar tells the story of a simple man, Santiago, whose life descends into violence as tragedy destroys his world. Themes in the songs represent different figures in the story. As the tale unfolds, the auditory themes develop character, carrying the listener along on Santiago’s journey.