Portland, Oregon folk rock band The Prairie Benders navigate the terrain of life’s accumulated trauma with a vulnerability and beauty that somehow leaves you feeling better about it all. Bending the lines between bluegrass, country, folk, and rock influences, their contemporary sound is distinctively original. With catchy melodies, sharp songwriting, and lyrics steeped in psychedelic escapism, The Prairie Benders' music feels genuinely cathartic and is as healing as it is infectious.

Photo Julia Varga
The Prairie Benders’ current lineup includes Chris Calvert (drums, vocals), Meghan Coil (fiddle, vocals), Jason Ferris (guitar, vocals), and Steve Rawley (upright bass).

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Past members include Sarah Arnold-vocals, and Sean Fong- electric bass.

Guest performers and recording appearances by: Jake Anderson-upright bass, Alison Dennis-vocals, Olivia Horgan-fiddle, Jake Levine-banjo, Tucker Mastin-upright bass, Stephen Freeman Moore-banjo, Mat Peluso-pedal steel, Raymond Richards-pedal steel, Trevor Stelflug-pedal steel

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“The Prairie Benders, the new alt country project of Portland songwriter/multi-instrumentalist Jason Ferris, swaps out his experimental rock tendencies for sweeping Folk/Americana textures while maintaining the sharp songwriting that has always characterized his work. His new spin on a traditional genre is particularly apparent in the lyrical themes, which very much feel like a reflection of modern times.” -Ross Beach (XRAYFM Radio Host/PDX Pop Now! Co-Founder)

Website Header photo by Chris Calvert