Geographer (band)

Did You Know?

• In live performances, Deni samples and loops his vocals, saxophone, and synthesizers using an Akai Professional MIDI controller.
• The cellist in live performances uses an NS Designs electric cello with effects pedals.
• 'Kites' was used in a 2009 team video for aggressive inline skate company Valo.

Early history

Deni moved to San Francisco from New Jersey in 2005. After finding a synthesizer on the street, he began writing songs that became Innocent Ghosts. He performed at open mic nights, notably at Hotel Utah, where he met cellist Nathan Blaz and drummer Brian Ostreicher, who had met at Berklee College of Music. They joined Deni's live band after being introduced by mutual friend Kacey Johansing. Deni independently released Innocent Ghosts on August 17, 2008, and Spin magazine named the band one of three undiscovered bands to hear.

Career

Deni signed with Tricycle Records and released a 7-inch single for 'Kites' in December 2009, with a cover of New Order's 'Age of Consent' as the B-side. The 2010 EP Animal Shapes included bonus remixes by Wallpaper and The Limousines and earned a 'Best of' award from SF Weekly. In November 2010, the band toured supporting Stars. In March 2011, they signed with Modern Art Records. Paste magazine released the single 'Life of Crime' from the forthcoming album Myth in December 2011. Myth was released on February 28, 2012, and the band toured with Miniature Tigers in March. On August 11, 2012, they played the Outside Lands Music and Arts Festival. In September 2012, they announced a 21-date U.S. tour with Freelance Whales. Their first headlining tour of the western U.S. began January 12, 2013, with On An On, selling out venues including the Fillmore West. They continued touring in 2013 with support from GRMLN and Royal Bangs.

Song usage

The band's songs have appeared in various media. 'The Morning' was used in the trailer for New York, I Love You (2009). 'Paris' was sampled in the hip-hop song 'Impossible' by G-Side. 'Kites', 'Verona', and 'Paris' appeared in MTV's The Buried Life. 'Can't You Wait' was featured in Pixar's It Gets Better campaign. 'Original Sin' appeared in MTV's Awkward and The CW's Star-Crossed. 'Age of Consent' was used in an Apple iPad Mini feature spot. 'Lover's Game' was in the film Date and Switch (2014). 'When Will I Belong' was featured in New Amsterdam. 'Get There Soon' appeared on God Friended Me and The Rookie. 'The Reason' was used on Grey's Anatomy.