Tuatara

Tuatara is an experimental instrumental music group based in Seattle, Washington. The band's members have roots in notable acts such as R.E.M., The Minus 5, Critters Buggin, The Chills, and the Screaming Trees. The group's name was inspired by a reptile native to New Zealand, suggested by bassist Justin Harwood.

The band was formed in 1996 by Peter Buck (guitar) of R.E.M., Barrett Martin (drums and percussion) of the Screaming Trees, Justin Harwood (bass guitar, double bass) of Luna and The Chills, and Skerik (saxophones) of Critters Buggin. Initially conceived as a project to create soundtrack music for friends, Tuatara evolved into an active band that performed occasional live shows. Their debut album, Breaking the Ethers, showcased a diverse sound influenced by a wide range of musical styles, from Lebanese and Asian music to traditional Western folk.