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Bio

The Protist is an Electronic/Indie band, based in California. Formed in 2007, by brothers Matt and Justin Kleiner, their aim is to create engaging music and enhance it with a strong visual presence. Cool Hunting describes their music as ”brooding electronic soundscapes,” while Gotta Dance Dirty says their sound is “like throwing M83, Radiohead, Sigur Rós, and your favorite weird three word band in a blender.”

The duo’s ambitious nature has brought about a number of projects and events, including the release of two EPs, a number of music videos, several remixes, and numerous art shows across the country. Included in those shows was the Manifest Hope exhibition, a project headed by Shepard Fairey to commemorate president Obama’s inauguration. They are currently recording their first full-length album.

Prior to forming The Protist, both brothers had been active in the music and visual arts communities. Justin had been an exhibiting artist and released music under his own name. Meanwhile, Matt directed highly visual surf films, while writing songs in his free time. After collaborating on a few side projects, they decided to combine their talents on a full-time basis and started The Protist.