Midlake formed in the small, quirky Texas town of Denton, home to fellow Bella Union signings Explosions In The Sky and Lift To Experience. Five highly talented musicians from the North Texas School of Music have come together to create a unique sound, tapping into an arsenal of technical skill and unbridled creativity. In 2001, their self released EP, ‘Milkmaid Grand Army’ sold over 1,000 copies based on the strength of their live shows alone.

Midlake then retreated home to begin work on their next musical venture. Soon enough, Simon Raymonde stumbled upon a copy of this work in progress and fell deeply in love with the band, signing them to his label, Bella Union Records. The band continued to work day and night to create what would become their debut album. They recorded and mixed at their home in Denton, and mastered at Abbey Road Studios in London. The result is an album of incredible vision, talent, dedication and eccentricity: ‘Bamnan and Slivercork’.

Along the way Midlake have picked up some formidable fans, amongst them the director, actor and skateboarding legend Jason Lee (Mallrats, Chasing Amy, Dogma, Almost Famous, Vanilla Sky, etc). Jason Lee has joined forces with Midlake as a huge supporter, promoter, and collaborator, directing and filming a video for their recent single, ‘Balloon Maker’.

The video was filmed with the band in their hometown of Denton, Texas with Jason and his production company, Niva Films. The video, along with a live performance by Midlake, was recently premiered at a party for the grand opening of Swedish clothing company, WE Clothing’s, first American store. The show, in conjunction with a fashion show and party, was held on the rooftop of the beautiful Standard Hotel in downtown LA. Along with host and Midlake ally Jason Lee being on hand for the event, other attendees included Beck, Peter Stormare (Fargo, The Big Lebowski, Armageddon, etc.), Stereo Skateboard’s Chris Pastras, and many more Midlake fans, WE activists and affiliates. The show and video were received with an overflow of wonderful reviews.

The video and single was formally released on May 14th 2005 and was A listed at BB6 Music for the last 5 weeks!! Steve Lamacq, Gideon Coe, Andrew Collins, Tom Robinson, Liz Kershaw all number among the big radio fans!. Midlake will be in the studio till the summer putting the finishing touches to the new album ‘The Trials of Van Occupanther,' which will be released on Bella Union/V2 on June 5th 2006.