Orchid Mantis performs original compositions inspired by jazz, classical, and drum 'n' bass. Members of their initial lineup included Nina Deering (vocals/vocoder/synth), Harley Magsino (e-bass), Caitlin Fahey Crow (cello/vocals), Rebecca Matayoshi (viola/vocals), John Smith (violin), Cliff Thrasher (cello), and Isaac Crow (drums/synth).
Multi-instrumentalist Harley Magsino is originally from the Philippines and has his Masters from SDSU. Drummer Isaac Crow is a San Diego native known from bands like Latin Jazz Quartet, bLUMPY, and Humankind. Cellist Caitlin Crow has performed with Thousand Butterflies, and cellist Cliff Thrasher has been a member of the Mid-Century Cello Quartet and the Bonita Trio.
A self-titled album was released in October 2017. By the end of the following year, the lineup had distilled down to a core foursome of Isaac Crow, Nina Leilani Deering (who played with Isaac in Humankind), Harley Magsino, and Caitlin Fahey Crow. Deering - also of Baby Bushka - passed away in spring 2020.