BIO
Hi Crime is a Seattle-based indie band that began as a recording project between songwriters Mitch Etter and Brielle Rutledge. The duo met in summer 2015 and quickly began work on what would become their first release. The Foreign Hours EP was written, recorded, and mixed entirely in the Mitch’s bedroom over the fall months while Rutledge finished college, commuting back every few weeks to record. The debut EP earned attention from KEXP, and other NW media outlets, inspiring the duo to expand to a four-piece and begin performing live. The expanded lineup provided a burst of new songs, propelling the band into work for their debut full-length album, The Kids Still Got It, released on June 29, 2018. After a successful tour in support of the album, more new music came in the form of two non-album singles, and a live EP.
While a follow-up LP was planned for 2020, the covid-19 pandemic severely disrupted the band's plans. Half of the group lost their jobs, and the other half suddenly became essential workers, with no ability to work together as a group. This forced hiatus gave the band a chance to grow before reconvening, and releasing Midori in June 2023. Mitch took time during the hiatus to study music theory, learn piano, write songs, and practice production by recording/mixing many elaborate demos. Brielle took time during the hiatus to focus on visual art, starting her own custom stuffie business. Following Midori, Brielle exited the band to work on her business. Mitch's next album as Hi Crime, Spirit and Candor released in October 25, 2024.
Music
All of our music can be found on Spotify, Bandcamp, Apple Music. Below are select music videos and live performances. More of each can be found on our YouTube channel!
Quotes & Notables
A full page dedicated to press coverage can be found on our site here.
“Catchy and a favorite at KEXP.” - KEXP
Among 7,466 entries in the 2025 NPR Tiny Desk Contest, Hi Crime’s submission “Everything Under the Sun” was one of only 8 videos to get a special “videos that caught our eye” newsletter shout-out.
Seattle Times included Spirit & Candor as one of the “Best Albums of 2024”
We’re incredibly stoked that legendary record label Sub Pop added “Everything Under the Sun” to two of their curated Spotify playlists. The “Sub Pop Suggests” and “Best of the Pacific Northwest” playlists.
“What began as the home recording brainchild of Mitch Etter and Brielle Rutledge has evolved into a full band with lush arrangements and stadium level potential.” - Northwest Music Scene
“These folks should no longer be flying under the radar and we honestly hope that today’s pick for our LISTEN AHEAD playlist is a fitting gateway drug for you into the Hi Crime cosmos.” - Nothing But Hope & Passion
“One band that certainly seems to have the knack for crafting infectious earworms is Seattle quartet Hi Crime. With the June release of their debut LP, The Kids Still Got It, Hi Crime have established themselves as formidable entrants in the crowded field of indie pop… their pure craft and ease with a hook provides all the pull needed to keep you listening again and again.” - Weekly Volcano
photo Use
Press approved portrait and performance images can be downloaded in HQ here. Please give photographer credits, thank you.