The Belltower
| Company type | Band |
|---|---|
| Industry | Music |
| Founded | 1990 |
| Defunct | 1996 |
| Headquarters | New York City , United States |
| Products | Alternative rock music |
Belltower was a New York City-based American alternative rock group connected to the shoegaze movement, featuring members who subsequently became part of Luna and Fountains of Wayne.
History
The band originated in 1990 when vocalists and guitarists Britta Phillips and Jody Porter formed the group, later adding Mark Browning. That same year, they moved to London, where they produced their initial EP, Exploration Day, under the guidance of producer Terry Bickers. While often linked to shoegazing, their style leaned more towards pop, earning them comparisons to The Cure, The Sundays, and Swervedriver. The title track "Exploration Day" earned the distinction of NME's "single of the week." Before releasing their only album, Popdropper (1992), they issued two more singles. Despite favorable reviews, none of these releases achieved chart success, leading Phillips and Porter to return to the United States.
In 1995, the band reassembled as a trio with drummer Tommy Hamer and released a final single titled "Underwatertown" prior to disbanding in 1996. Before their dissolution, Adam Schlesinger joined on bass for several live performances, bringing the group back to a four-member lineup.
Following Belltower's breakup, Porter became part of Fountains of Wayne—where Schlesinger also played bass—and established Astrojet. Schlesinger was additionally involved with Ivy. Phillips contributed to Ultrababyfat, collaborated with Ben Lee and Luna, and maintained an ongoing partnership with Dean Wareham.
Members
- Jody Porter – vocals and guitar
- Britta Phillips – vocals and guitar
- Nino Dmytryszyn – drums
- Mark Browning – bass and vocals
Singles and EPs
- Exploration Day EP (1991) Ultimate
- Tour 7" (1991)
- "(Lost) In Hollow" (1991) Ultimate (also issued as a US promotional release on East West)
- "Flight" (1992) Ultimate
- "Underwatertown" (1995) Scratchie
Albums
- Popdropper (1992) Ultimate/East West