Jen got her start in music as part of the Pittsburgh metal scene of the 1990s. Best known as the frontwoman of former progressive metal band Mindframe, Jen has long been celebrated for her dynamic voice and empassioned songwriting. Recognized principally as a power metal vocalist, Jen is also an accomplished singer of classical, blues, gospel, soul, and Medieval music (i.e., descant). In 2001, Jen teamed up with composer Chris Lehmier to forge the Krone project and begin development of the group’s first work, The Song of Tarathúr. A stalwart champion, Jen bounced back from an illness that robbed her of her voice for a year to complete production of The Song of Tarathúr and personally oversee its direction. Though largely self-taught, Jen trained under veteran metal vocalist D.C. Cooper in 2002 and 2003 and has undertaken independent study in music and voice. In addition to her participation on the Krone project, Jen is also the lead vocalist for Soulbinder and a respected member of the The Modern Vocalist. Jen also owns a small graphic design business. Date of birth: November 19 Musical background: Mostly self-taught. Some formal training. Influences: Geoff Tate, Ann Wilson, Ronnie James Dio, Doro Pesch, Kathleen Battle, Freddie Mercury, Ray Charles, and too many others to list here. Interests: Spirituality/religion, esoterica, fantasy/sci-fi, European history, martial arts, graphic arts, empire-building, and carpe diem. Favorites: The Lord of the Rings, The Silmarillion, Conan the Barbarian, seafood, pasta, Bombay Sapphire London Dry Gin, Belgian chocolate, good friends, good times, good sex, and a good sword. Best kept secret: Jen is an ordained minister. Most metal moment: Signing an autograph for a fan in appreciation of a CD that had yet to be released. Quote: “That which does not kill us makes us stronger.” -Nietzsche |
Bass player and singer for Pittsburgh-based prog rock band Orbital Motion, Chris has been playing and writing music in one capacity or another since the age of 12. Originally instructed in guitar and percussion, he eventually discovered his primary instrument when he began playing the bass. Later, while earning a bachelor’s degree in Computer Science, Chris took several college courses on music theory and composition in order to preserve his musical interests (as well as his sanity) and to increase his abilities as a writer. He had also taken a keen interest in sound engineering. Already an avid writer and musician, and heavily inspired by progressive music since early childhood, Chris set his sights upon collaborating with a lyricist to compose a full-length rock opera. Founding the Krone project in 2001 with vocalist Jen Martire, Chris was provided with the opportunity to do just that. As Krone’s principal composer, orchestrator, engineer and producer, Chris has been challenged in ways that have helped to greatly expand and develop his capabilities. Chris lives in Pittsburgh, PA with his wife Beth, daughter Kennedy, and dog Casey. Chris is also the owner and engineer of Runway Studio in Pittsburgh. Date of birth: August 14 Musical background: Mostly self-taught. Some formal training. Influences: Fates Warning, Rush, Tool, Iron Maiden, Therion, Yes, Pink Floyd, and Dream Theater. Interests: Movies, cooking, books, biking, and beer. Favorites: A romantic dinner with the wife, sitting on the beach with a paperback and a beer, and enjoying a good concert with friends. Best kept secret: Huge fan of the Eagles. Most metal moment: Playing bass for D.C. Cooper at the ProgPower USA VI pre-party. Quote: “Flying is learning how to throw yourself at the ground and miss.” -Douglas Adams |
Krone Bio
Krone is an epic metal ensemble, led by vocalist/songwriter Jen Martire and musician/composer Chris Lehmier. Taking as its focus mythologies inspired by ancient pagan cultures, Krone brings new life to classical archetypes and to what Joseph Campbell penned as “the hero of a thousand faces”. In the case of Krone’s first hero (Tarathúr), the archetype is a feminine power yet to be illustrated in music or mythology in such a raw, incorrupt form. This is the soul of Krone: a free and sovereign intelligence, rooted in spirit and achieving beauty, honor, and greatness by her deeds.
The musical canvas on which Krone is painted is broad. Jen Martire’s diverse vocal style finds compliment in Chris Lehmier’s equally multiform writing and performance capabilities. Both artists have roots in progressive, power, and symphonic rock and metal, but also bring to their collaboration repertoires that include classical, blues, soul, jazz, fusion, and early music forms. This complex tapestry of style and influence gives Krone its unique quality, at one moment challenging the ear with innovative progressions and at another sweeping it away with soaring passages and empassioned melodies.
Timeline
2001 - Jen Martire and Chris Lehmier team up to form Krone, and begin development of their first work, The Song of Tarathúr.
2003 - The writing phase for The Song of Tarathúr is completed.
2004 - Production is halted as Jen battles back from a prolonged illness.
2005 - Recovered, Jen and Chris take steps to produce The Song of Tarathúr. Chris establishes his recording studio, Runway, and Jen begins recruiting talent to fill the production’s epic cast.
2006 - Krone releases the demo single Twilight of My Tears.
2007 - Casting for The Song of Tarathúr is complete, and recording sessions begin. The demo single The Journey Below is released.
2008 - The Song of Tarathúr enters the final phase of production, with a 2009 release projected.
Current Line-up
Principal Vocalists: Jen Martire / Mezzo-Soprano Voices of the Mórrígan: Elizabeth Rishel / Soprano
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Choir: Elizabeth Rishel / Soprano 1 Musicians: Chris Lehmier / Guitars, bass, keyboards, orchestration, and drum programming Mike Miller / Lead guitar |
All content © 2001-2009 Jennifer Martire and Krone Productions, LLC. The KRONE Mythology, the characters, names and places therein, TM Jennifer Martire under license to Krone Productions, LLC. “KRONE” and the RAVENBRAND are registered trademarks of Jennifer Martire and Krone Productions, LLC. All Rights Reserved.
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Last Updated 01.26.2009