Half Moon Run

Half Moon Run

Half Moon Run are an indie rock group from Montréal, Canada, active since 2010. The line-up includes Conner Molander, Dylan Phillips, Devon Portielje and Isaac Symonds. The band is associated with Indica Records and is classed as indie folk, indie pop and indie rock.

Style and formation

The group develops a sound that combines indie, pop and folk with rhythmic harmonies, detailed guitar parts and touches of electronic texture. Its arrangements draw on both classical and modern compositional ideas. The band’s early development takes place in a rehearsal studio in Montréal’s Mile-End district, where members with different musical backgrounds build the trio’s sound.

Live performance and instrumentation

Half Moon Run are noted for complex live performances. Devon Portielje provides the lead vocal, backed by Molander and Phillips in three-part harmonies. Phillips often plays drums and keys at the same time, while Molander and Portielje move between guitar, keys, samplers and percussion. Isaac Symonds joins the group on stage as a multi-instrumentalist, adding voice, guitar, keyboards and percussion.

Musical character

The band’s music combines moody, psychedelic arrangements with electronic-infused soundscapes. Their layered harmonies and shifting instrumental roles are central to the group’s identity.