Jay Douglas and Erik Christ formed what would be the core of American Ether late in 2001. At the time, Jay was working with a different rhythm section, and was looking for a vocalist to front a hardcore project. Erik, who had recently returned to Allentown from Los Angeles, was working on solo acoustic music and looking for a band. On the advice of a mutual friend, Erik sat in on a rehearsal with Jay's band, and started crafting melodies that were decidedly NOT hardcore. The result is a distinct, original sound that still calls to mind great rock and roll from diverse influences, including Black Sabbath, AC/DC, James Gang, Stone Temple Pilots, and many more.

Personal agendas led to repeated personnel changes, which regularly interrupted the band's concert schedule. Shortly after their first show, AE found itself without a bass player, and recruited longtime friend and veteran musician Tim Billowitch to fill the void. Then, AE's original drummer experienced a family tragedy and left town, which allowed the band to recruit John Bennett late in 2002. In October 2003, Bennett left AE and was replaced by Tony Martinez. Tony's abrupt (and as of this writing, unexplained) departure in the summer of 2004 has left AE on indefinite hiatus.

The blend of Jay's heavy guitars and Erik's melodic vocals over the tight groove of Tim and John's jazz and rock influenced rhythm section can be heard on American Ether's only full length album, "Breathe Deep," released in early 2004. Although currently out of print, the music can be streamed from this site for free.

Please drop a line to info@ether.airsyndicate.net to let us know what you think of the music. Thanks for stopping by!

-Erik, Jay, and Tim