Genre

Ethereal indie rock with a gothy grunge edge.

Short Bio

When We Met is a Portland-based duo. Their latest sound blends indie rock with an ethereal gothy grunge vibe. Catch them as a duo with full soundscapes that fill up the room with dreamy and emotionally charged, or as a full band that will deliver that extra punch of energy.

Since 2014, they’ve performed everywhere from dive bars to festival stages, including Pioneer Courthouse Square, The Roseland Theater, and The Rose Festival. Whether as a duo or joined by a drummer, their live shows shift from intimate and haunting to driving and high-energy. Always evolving, When We Met continues to explore new sounds while staying rooted in emotion and connection.

Media Bio

When We Met is a Portland-based band led by Melissa Dorres and Bryan Casey, known for blending ethereal indie, alt-rock, and 90s-inspired grunge into a sound that is both atmospheric and emotionally charged. Layered with shimmering effects, cinematic textures, and dynamic arrangements, their music moves fluidly between haunting and electrified.

Their latest album Past Lives marks a deeper exploration into mood and space, incorporating upright bass and ambient elements to create a more immersive, cinematic listening experience. At the same time, the band continues to evolve, writing new material that brings a brighter, more rhythmic energy into their sound.

Since forming in 2014, When We Met has performed everywhere from dive bars to festival stages, including Pioneer Courthouse Square, The Roseland Theater, and The Rose Festival. Their live shows reflect the full spectrum of their sound — from intimate, ethereal moments to driving, high-energy performances — whether appearing as a duo or joined by a drummer to amplify the experience.

Rooted in 90s influences but never confined by them, When We Met continues to explore new sonic territory while staying grounded in emotional depth, texture, and connection.