Minneapolis: Sounds of resistance

As summer nights dwindle, and dusk gently swallows all which hangs in the balance between light and dark, splendorian Thomas Myrmel has brought Minneapolis based artists John Marks and Crystal Myslajek with their new project Reflectors to provide a window into the direct experience of Minneapolis through the tumultuous struggles of the last year(s). As counterpoint to the emotional distortion of the ballad of Minnehaha performed by SEALF, Reflectors provides an artist-as-activist insight to the tenderness required to preserve human connection in the face of state-sponsored violence.

This evening will resonate with songs from across the planet with beautiful melodies and dense harmonies in the sonic trimmings of electronic production which teases the ear with continual sonic play.

Reflectors:
Crystal Myslajek (piano/synth)
John Marks (electronics)

Sealf:
Thomas Myrmel (voice/electronics/trombone)
Jonathan Nagel (double bass/electronics)

– Bios –
Reflectors is Crystal Myslajek and John Marks
Deeply rooted in the rich landscape of grassroots contemporary art in Minneapolis, Minnesota, Reflectors is the musical duo of composer & multi-instrumentalist, Crystal Myslajek and interdisciplinary artist, John Marks. The duo craft expansive, long-form compositions that combine slowly evolving melodies and colorful sonic textures with voice, keyboard and electronics. Often performing in visual and cinema arts contexts, the duo has presented their work at museums, festivals, and underground venues throughout North America.

Because of its ongoing struggles with state-sponsored violence, for many in the Twin Cities, the arts and activism are synonymous. Since the 2020 social uprising in response to the police killing of George Floyd, and as recently as winter 2026 when U.S. forces began forcibly abducting neighbors, loved ones, and friends - the personal is inherently political. Reflectors’ work is no exception. Their artistic output reflects their engagement in systems of community care and frameworks for resistance that are necessary to collective wellbeing in the face of relentless attacks on humanity.

Sealf is the joyous product of the universal coincidence where electronic wizard Thomas Myrmel crossed paths with bassist and soundsmith Jonathan Nagel. Together they explore the farthest reaches of song form, deftly weaving melodies with sound walls and trilling frequencies drawing the listener into a sonic meditation sculpted into Myrmel's evocative lyrics.
Thomas Myrmel (Voice/electr/Trombone) is a composer, performer and multifaceted artist, weaving the notions of social change, craftsmanship and creative expression into every aspect of his practice.
Jonathan Nagel (Contrabass) is driven by a craving to convey emotions and tell stories. Continuously seeking to abandon the borders between genres, striving to merely rely on whatever means it takes to create a certain image or feeling. Alongside Contrabass, Nagel's artistic practice includes music, poetry, improvisation, physical theater, performance art, and dance.