CROONeR, the solo project of Christopher Guanlao (drummer of Silversun Pickups), has released the Catarina EP, marking a fresh chapter in his musical career. After sharing the single "Kick and Snare" and its music video, Guanlao now presents a full collection of songs that highlight his evolution beyond drumming and into songwriting, singing, and indie rock craftsmanship.
As a member of Silversun Pickups for over two decades, Guanlao has been known for his dynamic drumming. But Catarina showcases another side of his artistry, bringing his personal vision to life. CROONeR originally started in the mid-'90s as a band featuring Guanlao, Nikki Monninger (also of Silversun Pickups), Peter Dibiasio, and John Broekel. They played alongside bands like Spoon and The Dandy Warhols and gained attention with TV placements before going on hiatus when Silversun Pickups gained momentum in the early 2000s. The COVID-19 pandemic gave Guanlao the push to finally return to his roots.
“I was missing the songwriting and singing aspect,” Guanlao explains. “I realized, if I don’t do this now, I’m never going to do it.” Teaming up with Silversun Pickups’ drum tech and producer Frankie Siragusa, he recorded Catarina with an approach fueled by spontaneity and shared influences, particularly their admiration for Teenage Fanclub.
The EP is deeply personal, dedicated to Guanlao’s late sister, who passed away in 2018. Songs like "Kick and Snare" reflect his rhythmic background while pulling inspiration from literature, specifically Cormac McCarthy’s The Road. "The Film Had Nothing to Say" brings in cinematic and introspective elements, addressing lost dreams and emotional detachment. The closing track, "T As in Tsunami," delivers a raw intensity, confronting hidden emotions and long-standing regrets.
Catarina is an honest and compelling record that captures Guanlao’s voice in a new way. His approach is unfiltered and expressive, proving that reinvention is always possible. With this release, CROONeR is not just a revival but a statement of creative freedom. Guanlao’s leap into the spotlight is both bold and rewarding, making Catarina a strong entry in the indie rock landscape.