press – Plaid Lion

Plaid Lion

INDIE JAZZ-POP DUO

press

"Lure the Moon is a mature and well-crafted album that showcases Plaid Lion's versatility and talent. The album is a must-listen for fans of lo-fi indie rock, jazz, reggae, and electronic music." Chrd Magazine - November 12, 2023

"This is very reminiscent of Morcheeba in its soulful approach to trip-hop but with a nod to the musicianship of Sade as well." SPIN Magazine, Jan. 2026 "Now Hear This" feature on the Plaid Lion + SaraEllen dub remix of "Sekhmet"

"A brilliant fusion of disco and jazz, the track manages to effortlessly combine a four-on-the-floor beat with a more laidback, downtempo mood. These two elements would seem to clash, especially with the use of upright bass on a disco beat, but against all odds the duo have crafted a truly sophisticated ear worm." The Big Takeover - Sept. 30, 2025

"What “Follow Me” makes clear is the group’s preference for economical writing and a polished, throwback-aware sound. It’s a compact introduction to their approach: an emphasis on mood, musicianship, and a discreet sense of fun that aims to outlast a single season." Conversations about Her - Oct. 5, 2025

"Known for weaving jazz, indie pop, and soul into a lush sonic tapestry, the pair continues to push boundaries with a track that’s equal parts moody, mystical, and melodic." Zedclouts - July 17 2025

"Plaid Lion revives the cool appeal of silky-smooth jazz blended with the simmering glamor of pop panache." V13 - 9/15/25

"Musically, this is brilliantly done because it does carry with it that soft and subtle smoothness that blends contemporary with elements of jazz, and this four on the floor disco style beat, along with alluring vocals that are the focal point of everything." Buzzslayers - 10/3/25

"Formed in Washington and rooted in deep jazz training, Plaid Lion has quickly developed a signature sound that’s both soulful and understated. Their work has drawn early comparisons to acts like Portishead for its blend of edge and elegance, though their approach leans more toward sunlight than shadow. Smart writing, memorable melodies, and contemporary production sensibilities have become their calling cards." Addicted - 12/12/25

news

Plaid Lion & SaraEllen collaborate on "Sekhmet (Dub Remix)"

About

Tacoma-based Plaid Lion is a genre-bending indie jazz pop duo with thought-provoking lyrics and tasty pop hooks. Plaid Lion consists of SaraEllen (vocals, keys, music, lyrics, arranging, mixing) and Ian (guitar, bass, vocals, music, lyrics, arranging).

Guitarist/Bassist Ian's style is rooted in 60s and 70s funk and jazz. His influences include Grant Green, Jimi Hendrix, Wes Montgomery and George Benson.

Vocalist SaraEllen's three-octave range, powerful belts and playful improvisation draw from her diverse background in contemporary music. SE's vocal influences include Annie Lennox, Sarah Vaughan, Ann Wilson (Heart), Astrud Gilberto, and Beth Gibbons (Portishead). Her songwriting influences include Cole Porter, Stevie Nicks, the Beatles and Lana del Rey. All that said, a lot of people say she reminds them of Shirley Manson (Garbage).

Plaid Lion's live shows are marked by a surprising charm and intimacy. Plaid Lion lets the colors of melody wrap the audience in emotion, and carry them through the story of the song.

In the studio, Plaid Lion walks through the liminal spaces between jazz, rock, soul, and electronica with lyrics that make you think...and melodies that stick.

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