The Sacramento, CA-based alternative pop band Oleander comprised singer/guitarist Thomas Flowers, guitarist Ric Ivanisevich, ba**ist Doug Eldridge and drummer Fred Nelson Jr. Named for the poisonous wildflowers growing throughout the Northern California region, the group debuted in 1996 with a self-titled EP issued on the Fine label; the full-length Shrinking the Blob followed in mid-1997, launching the local hit "Down When I'm Loaded." The record's success landed Oleander a deal with Universal, and in early 1999 they resurfaced with February Son. A third effort Unwind was issued in early 2001. ~ Jason Ankeny, All Music Guide