Versus

Versus is a New York indie rock and noise rock group active since 1990. The band forms around the Baluyut family and Fontaine Toups, and its line-up includes Edward Baluyut, James Baluyut, Richard Baluyut, Patrick Ramos, Fontaine Toups and Margaret White.

Origins and formation

The band develops out of Flower, a group led by Richard Baluyut and singer/bassist Ian James, who later forms French. In Flower’s final period, Fontaine Toups joins on vocals and guitar, and she remains with Richard Baluyut in the short-lived Saturnine before they form Versus with Richard’s brother Ed Baluyut. The name comes from an LP by Mission of Burma. The group first performs with three guitars and a drum machine; after Ed Baluyut relocates to the Philippines, Toups moves to bass, and when Ed returns he takes on drums.

Recording history

Versus issues its debut single, “Insomnia,” in 1992. The following year the band releases the EP Let’s Electrify!, a compact set built around intricate, dissonant guitar work and unusual harmonies. After signing to Teenbeat, the group releases its first full-length album, The Stars Are Insane, in 1994. The album is originally titled Meat, Sports and Rock, reflecting subjects the band supports despite the prevailing indie-scene mood of the period.

A compilation of singles, compilation tracks and demos, Dead Leaves, appears in 1995, followed by the EP Deep Red in early 1996. James Baluyut joins for the 1996 album Secret Swingers, which is also Ed Baluyut’s last release with the band. New drummer Patrick Ramos appears on 1998’s Two Cents Plus Tax. The EP The Afterglow follows on Merge Records, and in 2000 the band releases the EP Shangri-La and the fifth studio album Hurrah.

Style and context

Versus is identified with indie rock, alternative rock and hardcore influences, and is also described as a noise and indie rock band from New York. Its early recordings are noted for layered guitars, dissonance and close vocal harmonies.