Portland-based alternative rock duo Dystoria is known for their electric performance, unique sound, and fresh perspective on the genre. Comprising members Chase Kochis and Miles Reed, Dystoria combines raw energy with emotional depth in a sound that has inspired much devotion within their ever-growing fanbase. Their journey from high school classmates to the rising stars of the music world testifies to their great passion, determination, and the magic of collaboration.

The Beginning of Dystoria

Dystoria’s formation can be traced back to the hallways of Lincoln High School, where Chase Kochis and Miles Reed first crossed paths. What started as casual leather jacket conversations quickly evolved into jam sessions, where it became clear that music was a shared passion. Early days were filled with them playing together in the school’s band room with their friends, but it wasn’t until one fateful one-on-one jam session away from school that their bond was cemented. Miles dared Chase to make up a riff on the spot, which turned into the very first song of the group, Inda—a song that would soon find its place among the fans’ favorites and lay a foundation for their joint creative work.

Both Miles and Chase were into music from a very young age. Miles grew up in a very musical family that had his father playing in bands and teaching him the basics of many different instruments. By the time he reached his teenage years, Miles had become proficient in guitar, drums, piano, and vocals. Chase started off with the violin but soon knew songwriting was the thing that sparked his imagination. In their teens, both Miles and Chase were multi-instrumentalists; they had honed their skills on GarageBand, posting covers online, and developed an overwhelming urge to create music of their own.

Creating a Creative Partnership

The chemistry between Miles and Chase was palpable from day one. A mutual affinity for iconic bands like Radiohead, Deftones, and Beach House significantly helped in finding their sound. But it wasn’t just their influences that bonded them-it was their commitment to the songwriting craft. Countless hours were spent in perfecting their sound, where many summer hours in 2022 were locked up in a 100-degree practice space. Being able to collaborate on and mesh their own musical ideas became one of the cornerstones of the creative process behind Dystoria.

In all these, trust in one another was crucial, especially on points of disagreement. Such open communication and respect for each other enabled the duo to push through challenges as they refined their sound. By the end of their junior year in high school, Miles and Chase had enough material to record their first album.

Debut Album: Lace

In March 2024, Dystoria released their first album, Lace, a lush, atmospheric rock record written, played, and produced entirely by Miles and Chase. The album was recorded with assistance from Nathan Abner, a studio veteran who happened to work with Chase at a local restaurant. Lace is a testament to their musical journey: emotional storytelling and melodic hooks embody a cinematic sound reflective of their influences and vision. Their refreshing approach to songwriting helped cement the album’s success, creating music that resonates on deep emotional levels with listeners.

Lace was the turning point for this band because it gave them a chance to play in front of people and show off their style and musicality. After releasing the self-titled album, Dystoria started putting more focus on live performances, which would become their next distinguishing characteristic.

Live Performances and Growth

It wasn’t long before Dystoria’s live shows went from the high school circuit to some of Portland’s best stages, and quickly became a bright spot in the band’s budding career. The original trio, featuring Miles on drums and vocals, Chase on guitar, and Miles’ dad Dustin on bass, were getting more confident with each show. Chase and Miles often switch instruments mid-set, showcasing their musicianship. The way they go about booking gigs in a very DIY manner-emailing venues, reaching out on Reddit, self-passing out business cards-earned them a reputation as a hardworking and determined group of musicians.

A year after their first show, Dystoria headlined Polaris Hall, one of Portland’s best venues, and self-sold half the tickets. It was a turning point that saw them start to make a more significant presence in the Portland music scene. Shortly after, they added Nikolaus Hill as their new bassist, completing the band’s lineup.

Dystoria’s hard work and determination paid off as the group expanded their reach beyond Portland, playing shows in Seattle, California, and everywhere in between, including legendary spots like 925 Gilman and Whisky A Go Go. Their growing fanbase and the continuous booking of shows in the Pacific Northwest solidified their place in the alternative rock scene.

Connecting with Fans

One of the defining aspects of Dystoria’s success is their deep, hearty connection with their fans. The band has made it very clear time and again that it is not listeners they want but a people-to-people relationship of individuals with whom they share their love for music. Through their authentic online presence, Dystoria has fostered a community that feels more like a family than a fanbase. With social media platforms such as Instagram, TikTok, and Spotify, the band has kept connected with fans by sharing their journey in life and providing space for meaningful engagement.

Their latest cover of Beach House’s Space Song really shows the band’s dexterity in reworking classic pieces in their own manner. The reinterpretation of this dream-pop classic is another example of the band’s creativity and willingness to experiment, yet still retaining the emotional depth and energy so characteristic of their music.

What’s Next for Dystoria?

Moving into their second year after high school, Dystoria’s future has never looked brighter. Teaming up for more national tours and exposure, Dystoria continues its rise as one of Portland’s most promising alternative rock bands. They are currently working on their next release, which is expected in 2026, while also continuing to perform and expand their reach across the country.

The journey of Chase and Miles has only just begun, but their dedication to creating unique, emotional music can be felt in everything they do. In their rise, Dystoria’s fanbase will continue to grow as long as the band keeps committed to building relationships and producing music that reaches all ages.

Contact Dystoria

To stay updated on Dystoria’s latest music, tour dates, and more, be sure to follow them on their social media platforms:

• Instagram: @dystoria.band
• Spotify and Apple Music: Dystoria
• TikTok: @dystoriaband 

Dystoria’s journey is far from over, and their unique blend of alternative rock, raw emotion, and passion for music promises an exciting future ahead.