The Underscore Orkestra

The Underscore Orkestra

The Underscore Orkestra is a group from Portland, Oregon, described as a Balkan/Klezmer/Hot Jazz/Americana/Swing band. It develops in a self-sustaining art collective just outside Portland and brings together music with performance art. The project combines gypsy jazz, swing and world music with vaudeville cabaret and circus arts.

Style and instrumentation

The group uses a wide range of acoustic instruments, including banjo, drums, fiddle, washtub, acoustic bass, cello, clarinet, trumpet, guitar, mandolin, flute, accordion and vocals. Its members are described as world travellers and rambling artists with varied performance backgrounds.

Performance approach

Live shows include acrobatics, aerial trapeze, fire performance, stilt walking, juggling, balancing acts, mini bikes and tall bike jousting. The act is presented as a theatrical combination of music, circus work and slapstick vaudeville rather than as a conventional band performance.