Originating in Seattle WA, and currently residing in Portland OR, Helvetia (pronounced "hel-vee-shuh") began in the aftermath of the droning, atmospheric group Duster (Up Records). Principle songwriter Jason Albertini and bandmate Canaan Dove Amber formed the group with a revolving cast of contributors, which at times has included members of Built To Spill and Dinosaur Jr. Albertini's laissez faire approach to personnel has resulted in a diverse catalog of material, ranging from 4-track lo-fi indie to surreal, unhinged soundscapes.