The Water's Edge - CARIS

About This Footage

The Water's Edge, a hauntingly beautiful original song performed live at the Coffee Gallery Backstage in Altadena, CA, on March 2019. This footage is notable for its behind-the-scenes look into the creative process of Los Angeles-based duo CARIS, comprised of David Caris and Terry Rangno.

At the time of filming, CARIS was already gaining traction with their unique blend of folk and indie rock, having released several singles and EPs in the preceding years. Their music was characterized by introspective lyrics, soaring vocal harmonies, and a distinctive guitar-driven sound. This performance, captured on film by Mary Chan, offers a rare glimpse into the duo's live setup, showcasing David Caris's fingerpicking technique and Terry Rangno's understated yet effective bass playing.

What makes this clip so significant is its candid portrayal of an intimate live performance. The Water's Edge is not a polished studio recording, but rather a raw, unbridled expression of the duo's artistry. The footage captures the chemistry between Caris and Rangno as they trade vocals and guitar lines, their voices blending in perfect harmony. This is not a rehearsed set; it's an honest, heartfelt performance that speaks to the duo's connection with each other and their audience.

The Coffee Gallery Backstage in Altadena, CA, provides a unique setting for this performance. A small, unassuming venue tucked away in the San Gabriel Valley, it has long been a hub for local musicians looking to hone their craft and connect with like-minded artists. The clip's setting is a testament to CARIS's commitment to community-driven music-making, where the focus is on creating meaningful art rather than grand spectacle.

As a viewer watches this footage, they will be struck by the duo's vulnerability and authenticity. There's an unassuming quality to their performance, as if they're sharing a private moment with the audience rather than putting on a show. The Water's Edge is not just a song; it's an experience that invites viewers to step into CARIS's world, if only for a few fleeting moments.

The significance of this clip extends beyond its artistic value, offering a window into the creative process and the relationships between musicians, venues, and communities. It highlights the importance of small, independent spaces like the Coffee Gallery Backstage in fostering innovation and artistic growth. In an era where music is often reduced to clickbait headlines and carefully curated social media feeds, this footage serves as a refreshing reminder of the beauty and simplicity of live performance.

Ultimately, The Water's Edge is a poignant snapshot of CARIS at a pivotal moment in their career. It's a testament to the power of music to connect us with others, to create meaningful experiences that linger long after the final note has faded away. As we watch this footage, we're not just witnessing a performance; we're being invited into a world of beauty, vulnerability, and creative expression – a world that CARIS so eloquently captures in The Water's Edge.

Curated from public records and music databases.