Local Bands to Check Out
Words Abby L. Johnson | Photos Courtesy of Bands
The Irons
Frontman Hayden Havard brings frenetic energy to the whimsical, mellow sound of The Irons’ story-driven songs. Backed by Robert Harris, Nathan Pittman, Willy Steg, and Caleb Tippit, the young indie group leans into groovy beats paired with sometimes absurd lyricism that creates a mysterious, almost mythical, quality in their music. Each of their albums has a distinct narrative arc that translates into their electric live shows.
theirons.online | @theironsband
Indoor Creature
Indoor Creature creates dreamy, funky, jazz-inspired pop capable of inducing a trance-like state in an engaged listener. Sax, synth, and smooth vocals punctuate their accessible, yet still ambitious, sound that draws in a dedicated local fan base show after show.
indoorcreature.com | @indoorcreature
Lord Friday the 13th
Fronted by brother and sister Felix and Sloane Lenz, this sibling duo isn’t a prototypical family band. This theatrical glam punk group is raucous and simply fun, never taking themselves too seriously. Their live shows aren’t for the faint of heart; be prepared to move with the crowd while being entertained by the outrageous stage antics of the group.
lordfridaythe13th.com | @lordfridayland
The Pastlives
Quentin Arispe, AKA Neptune, is the explosive vocalist of this soulful sextet whose seductive charisma launches The Pastlives into the realm of unmissable Austin performers. The heat rises in any venue they play with an unmatched swagger. Their performances have a frenzied appearance, but their hard rock sound is tight and controlled, only spinning out of control when the band allows.
thepastlivesmusic.com | @thepastlivesofficial
Skateland
The DIY bedroom pop of Dorian Williams II is an eclectic mix of new wave influences and tinges of alt rock, making for a cool and balanced sound. Taken to the stage with a band backing him, the music expands beyond Skateland’s recorded material, making a live show a necessity for those who want to see the full extent of Dorian’s creative vision.
@skatelanding
Redbud
Led by Katie Claghorn, Redbud’s sound is infused with a contagious optimism. Sweet melodic guitars with ethereal vocals floating on top are the backbone of much of their growing catalog. Rich and dreamy, one can’t help but smile as they listen to the sunny sounds. The indie pop group is taking over the local circuit, and that’s fine by us.
@redbud.dy
