Tyson Allison (vocals, guitar, lyrics) and Justin DeLeon (drums, percussion) wanted an outlet for some quiet, acoustic-based songs that lean on simplicity, atmosphere, and lyrics filled with introspection and imagery. Their debut album, titled "The Sleeper Pins," was recorded at Angel Beach Studios in Minneapolis and Three Fish Studios in Mankato, MN and released by the independent label Emperor Penguin Records. Many shows followed, and after some downtime and dabbling in other local bands, The Sleeper Pins resurfaced with new member and McKnight Music Fellowship recipient Aaron Kerr adding his unique style of cello playing to the group. They began performing live again as part of the successful Emperor Penguin Acoustic Showcase in Minneapolis/St. Paul. The group was further rounded out by fourth member Steve Nord, a multi-instrumentalist adding piano, bass, and guitar to the mix. With a challenging new batch of songs coupled with their more powerful full-on sound, The Sleeper Pins began recording sessions at Clear Stream Audio in Mendota Heights, MN and I.P.R. Studios in Minneapolis, MN. Their follow up album, also released on Emperor Penguin Records, was titled "Keep It Coming Like A Miracle," and proved to be a substantial step forward in sound, depth, and musicianship thanks to tasteful production by Midwest Matadors and visionary mixing by local Minneapolis whiz kid Joe Johnson. Final mastering touches were put on the album by Pete Lymon (Queens of the Stone Age/Beck/The Circle Jerks) at Infrasonic Sound in Los Angeles, CA.

Recently, The Sleeper Pins have spread their wings by doing some regional touring while the plans are made for their forthcoming album, which will be titled "Slow Boat to China." This album will include new member and multi-instrumentalist Jeff Crandall. In the meantime, the members of The Sleeper Pins moonlight in other musical endeavors; most notably Swallows, Dissonant Creatures, and Heavy Pedal Cello.

The Sleeper Pins are:

Tyson Allison-------vocals, lyrics, guitar, bass, piano, analog synth, percussion

Justin Deleon------drums, percussion, bells

Jeff Crandall-------bass, piano, guitar, backing vocals

Aaron Kerr---------cello

Steve Nord--------piano, bass, guitar