Kalida is a soulful Americana and blues-rock band from Portland, Oregon, known for their groove-driven sound, lyrically rich songwriting, and tight live performances. Blending elements of roots rock, modern Americana, and classic blues, Kalida crafts songs that feel timeless, rhythmic, and deeply human.
Their music bridges the gap between storytelling and energy, channeling influences like Nathaniel Rateliff, Dave Matthew’s Band, and The Wood Brothers while staying distinctly their own. Every performance carries the warmth of the Pacific Northwest music scene and the pulse of true, live musicianship.
Chris Juhlin (Guitar, Vocals): Chris is a Washington-born artist with ties to Alaska, Colorado, and Idaho. Chris performed and recorded with the band Chris Juhlin & The Collective while in Alaska. He then fronted the Portland band the first version Kalida before supporting a solo album Thrive with the help of some friends in Colorado (Broken Land) and some of Portland’s best session players.
Brandon Wayne (Lead Guitar, Vocals): Brandon was a key part of “A Stitch In Time", a Grammy nominated jazz-rock fusion album by the Melz, Erskine, Prigodich Group (MPEG) released in 2011. He is a composer in modern classical styles, progressive rock, jazz-rock fusion, singer-songwriter, and new-age instrumental guitar. Links: A Stitch in Time, Between Dimensions, Youtube.
Craig Commerford (Bass): Craig hails from Pensylvania and has performed with a variety of bands.
Paul Ansoteguie (Drums): Paul hails from Eastern Oregon and performs with many Portland bands including Clark Allen Rose.
Americana • Blues Rock • Groove Rock • Roots Rock
back tracks
Chris Juhlin released his solo album Thrive in 2022 and continues to contribute to Kalida's back catalogue with powerful versions of the original tracks.