Truly is an American rock band formed in Seattle, Washington, in 1993. The band's lineup features former members of prominent grunge-era bands: Robert Roth (vocals, guitar, previously of The Storybook), Hiro Yamamoto (bass, previously of Soundgarden), and Mark Pickerel (drums, previously of Screaming Trees). Truly's sound is characterized by its blend of alternative rock, psychedelic rock, and grunge influences, often incorporating melodic and atmospheric elements.
History
Truly formed in 1993, bringing together three musicians with significant backgrounds in the Seattle music scene. Robert Roth, Hiro Yamamoto, and Mark Pickerel quickly began writing and recording material. They signed with Capitol Records and released their self-titled debut EP, Truly, in 1994.
Their first full-length album, Fast Stories... from Kid Coma, was released in 1995. Produced by Roth, the album received critical acclaim for its distinctive sound, combining heavy guitar riffs with more experimental and melodic passages. Following the release of Fast Stories..., Truly toured extensively, supporting acts such as Live and The Smashing Pumpkins.
In 1997, the band released their second studio album, Feeling You Up. This album continued to explore their unique blend of hard rock and psychedelic textures. After a period of touring and promoting Feeling You Up, Truly went on an indefinite hiatus around 1998, with members pursuing other projects.
The band intermittently reunited in the 2000s, primarily for live performances and to work on new material. They released a compilation album, Twilight Curtains, in 2000, featuring unreleased tracks and B-sides. Truly has continued to perform occasionally and has hinted at new recordings, maintaining a cult following among fans of the Seattle sound and psychedelic rock.
Musical Style
Truly's musical style is often described as a unique fusion that emerged from the post-grunge landscape of the mid-1990s. While rooted in the alternative rock and grunge scenes of Seattle, their sound incorporates strong psychedelic elements, atmospheric textures, and melodic songwriting. Robert Roth's vocals often shift between powerful wails and more subdued, introspective tones. Hiro Yamamoto's basslines provide a deep, often hypnotic foundation, and Mark Pickerel's drumming contributes a dynamic and nuanced rhythm section. Their music has been noted for its expansive arrangements and its ability to blend raw energy with a sense of dreamy introspection.
Members
- Robert Roth – vocals, guitar (1993–1997, 2000–present)
- Hiro Yamamoto – bass (1993–1997, 2000–present)
- Mark Pickerel – drums (1993–1997, 2000–present)
Discography
Studio Albums
- Fast Stories... from Kid Coma (1995, Capitol Records)
- Feeling You Up (1997, Capitol Records)
Extended Plays (EPs)
- Truly (1994, Capitol Records)
Compilations
- Twilight Curtains (2000, Sweet Nothing Records)