One truly cannot discuss the post rock scene without considering Pele. Formed in Milwaukee Wisconsin in 1997 by Jon Mueller and Chris Rosenau, in its early incarnation, the band also included ex-Promise Ring member Scott Schoenbeck. Later, Matt Teneson (Paris, Texas) and Jon Minor joined Pele, and with each release, the band became more central to the post rock scene. The band’s sound mixes jazzy touches with slightly avant-garde leanings and an electro-tinged spirit while grabbing listeners’ hearts and ears with its pop sensibilities. It’s undeniable that Pele introduced a sense cheerfulness to what was an otherwise difficult-seeming genre.

In 2002 Pele toured Japan with 54-71 and also played with Toe. At the latter’s request, a Pele/Toe split EP was released around the same time. Pele announced that they would soon stop playing as a band, however, in 2003. In January 2004 the band participated in the “Peak Week Tour 2004,” which also included Battles, Enon, and others. After the tour, Pele played their last show at Shibuya O-nest, concluding seven years of creative productivity in the band’s much-loved Japan, surrounded by local fans.

Since Pele’e end, Jon Mueller and Chris Rosenau have concentrated their efforts on Collections of Colonies of Bees, which carries on the spirit of Pele while producing an even more evolved sound.