Here are some random photos taken throughout 2018 of some of our favorite bands. Photo Credit: Robert Castro
Too many people to name.
Tyto Alba
Oxeye Daisy
Corsicana
One Flew West
YaSi
iZCALI
Crl Crrll
Water Aerobics
The Velveteers
Citra
Kayla Marque
Maxwell Hughes
HR People
Whiskey Autumn
Pout House
Wildermiss
King Eddie
The Corner Girls
The Corner Girls +1
Some of the most talented musicians in Denver!
Our friends at Corsicana have just released this beauty of a masterpiece for our listening pleasure. The new single “Quandary” from their forthcoming album Perennial (out 1/18/19) is set to a beautiful backdrop featuring an array of complementing sounds that fit perfectly with vocalist Ben Pisano’s ranging array of lyrical bliss. The song is arranged in a way that put the listener right in the line of fire of what the song is about, it’s as if everything is happening right in front of you and you are watching it play out in real time, only to realize the uncertainty of what just took place. Corsican is set to release their new album (tickets on sale now) just after the new year and we will keep you plugged on all the upcoming details. Stay Tuned.
Do you feel it too? When I pull you up the stairs, it’s the weight that’s yours to bear.
We burst into my room, we’ve caught the fear between our teeth, trapped it underneath the sheets.
You say “it’s best we never leave,” I think you’re feigning your relief.
Are you lost in the fervor? You’ll only push further.
In all the times you’ve had me stay over, I’ve never felt colder.
The fear tastes stale;
An old friend loiters in your home.
Feel my shame positioned like a weapon.
Can you hear it too? Our friends are at the door, seeking shelter from the storm.
They won't peer inside, cause they know you drew the blinds. Have you found your peace of mind?
We can't harbor our conceit in a sea of our deceit.
Corsicana
Ben Pisano - Acoustic/electric guitars, percussion, programming, synths, vocals/processing
Amos Chase - Drums
Jordan Leone - Electric bass
Melanie Steinway - Ambient (tremolo) guitar
Produced, engineered, & recorded by Ben Pisano.
Live drums engineered & recorded by Corey Coffman.
Song & lyrics written & arranged by Ben Pisano.
Mixed by Corey Coffman.
Mastered by Joe Lambert.
Artwork by Anna Bernard.
Design by Jordan Leone.
Friday night at the Hi-Dive was full of heavy cords, guitar solos, and young rockers. If you do not know the band Residual Kid, they might surprise you. Their name means it when it says “Kid” - this trio are couple of under-aged, high energy rock’n’rollers from Austin, Texas. Comprised of 16-year-old singer and guitarist Deven Ivy, and two brothers, 14-year-old bassist Max and 16-year-old drummer Ben Redman, the group formed when the two brothers met Ivy at a rock camp and started by covering Sonic Youth and Nirvana songs. Shortly after writing a few of their own songs and playing small venues throughout Austin, they landed a spot playing as an official artist at SXSW where people really started to give them recognition.
Residual Kid performing at their day party during SXSW 2016 (photo credit: Maddie Casey)
Last Friday was the launch of their 3rd EP, Salsa, and their first major release since announcing their signing to Sire Records (Warner Bros). A step slightly out of the norm, Residual Kid elected to debut their new EP here in Denver, CO rather than playing at home. A choice that may seem odd at first glance, the trio’s management is based in Denver, and over the last three years the band has made Denver a bit of a second home after appearances during the annual Underground Music Showcase (UMS), and opening for Denver acts like Slow Caves and In The Whale.
On Friday night, the tides had turned, and local favorites Slow Caves started out the night followed by Bud Bronson and the Goodtimers. Slow Caves hails from Fort Collins, and Bud Bronson are a local bunch based in Denver. Slow Caves says they are inspired by late nights in Hollywood, high speed car chases, red eye flights, vintage skateboard videos and new brand of high energy synth-punk who kill it on stage. Bud Bronson and the Goodtimers rock with a guitar heavy lead and many songs that reminisce on the good times past; the stories of the cheap seats at a Rockies game and getting drunk with friends. Both acts felt like a solid fit to prep the audience in the Hi-Dive for Residual Kid.
Residual Kid's Deven Ivy feeling "red" at their Salsa EP release on Friday, 4/8. (photo credit: Matt Smith)
The trio opened the night with “Friend”, a song from their 2012 EP Faces, followed by a song they have not recorded yet, “Vicious”. as well as“ISCTW” off Salsa, that evening’s new release. Playing with an amazing energy, lead singer Deven sang and jumped around stage with uncontrollable passion. It was abundantly clear that both the crowd and the accompanying musicians were elated to have Residual Kid celebrating with them that night. In the front row, members of Slow Caves and Bud Bronson rocked out, dancing and jumping along to the youthful trio. Watching these fellow musicians show their respect and appreciation for Residual Kid was super cool to see, and energized the crowd in a unique way. The crowd seemed to love the new EP as well as the rest of the set: new, old, or unreleased. Friday’s show at the Hi-Dive was a full crowd, rocking out to songs and having a genuine good time. Big thanks and love to Denver’s adopted sons Residual Kid for releasing your new EP here in Denver. We can’t wait to see you back.
Tomorrow night, One Flew West are hosting their sold out EP Release show at The Larimer Lounge, and lucky for you, we got a sneak preview of their new Selective Memory EP, as well as a pair of tickets to send you to the show!
It’s safe to say that we’ve been obsessed with One Flew West since Denver was first introduced to this folk-pop sextet through KTCL 93.3’s “Hometown For The Holidays” competition last winter. Their first single, “Kind of Love” has all the trappings of a successful radio single: witty lyrics, a deceivingly addicting chorus, and the gentle addition of horns, bringing the song new life with it’s playful inclusion.
The new Selective Memory EP steps up to the expectations set by the single, proving that One Flew West is more than a one hit wonder with solid songs to stand on, and room for these young artists to continue to grow. Opening track “Had it All” begins with a tantalizing melody line reminiscent of early 2000’s rock from the likes of Third Eye Blind and Something Corporate, accompanied by a heartwarming trumpet that immediately gets your head bobbing. Lead singer Linden Jackson’s voice glides through verses and chorus' with an ease and timbre that feels as familiar as your favorite drink on a Friday night. Nothing about this EP feels forced or out of place, a welcome change compared to so many artists who are focusing on trying to stand out, rather than standing up with solid music.
We get a taste of their “rock” side with the track “Motion Sickness”, featuring gang vocals and driven guitars on the chorus. The rest of the EP takes the quieter route, with tracks “In The Water” and “These Old Bones”, a touching sentiment that’s sure to tug on listener’s heartstrings.
One Flew West’s debut does exactly what an EP should for any young band. Without backing themselves into one particular corner, the group plays their cards just right and showcases variety in their songwriting, while establishing themselves as solid performers with a good understanding of their musical identity. If there’s one thing you take away from Selective Memory, it’s that this band very clearly has a story to tell. Catchy lyrics that are easily relatable paired with familiar melodies, this EP is easy listening for anyone regardless of musical taste. A great diving board for the band, we’re curious to see what comes next.
ticket giveaway is happening on our Facebook and Instagram.
Winners will be chosen by 2pm on Thursday 10/28
It’s a busy weekend for music here in Denver, so let us be the first to tell you that it’s completely unacceptable for you to not go see at least one show! To try and help make the decision process easier, we’ve compiled a list of shows of varying shapes and sizes: from Red Rocks to radio festivals, down to the little “need to see” acts who are just about to blow up and the locals who always deserve your time and attention. Check this over, and see if you can’t squeak in a little live music to liven up your weekend festivities.
When: Saturday, July 11th.
Doors: 2:30pm
If you’ve been jamming to any songs currently in rotation on Denver’s top Alternative station, 93.3 FM, love a good outdoor concert, or like to blend your big names with a little local love, you couldn’t ask for a better show than the annual Big Gig. Presented by KTCL with some help from AEG, this radio station annually gathers local rockstars, national bands on the up-and-up, and pairs them up with some of the biggest names in Alternative for one massive day of shows. This year’s concert features the likes of a locals stage (featuring many of the bands from Hometown For The Holidays), Nate Ruess of fun., Andrew McMahon in The Wilderness, New Politics, Banks, Atlas Genius, and headlining is AWOLNATION. Sit back, grab a $20 beer and enjoy this eclectic lineup from the comfortable grass of Fiddler’s Green Amphitheater.
for tickets: http://www.fiddlersgreenamp.com/events/detail/274698
When: Friday - Sunday night, July 10th - 12th.
Show start: 7:30pm on Friday/Saturday, 5:30pm Sunday.
photo credit: Matt Smith (Ultra5280)
I must (sadly) premise this part of our list by saying that yes, all three nights of this residency from Indie/Folk/Americana superstars The Avett Brothers is already sold out. But tickets are still available via Craigslist and StubHub! if you’re interested. This band of brothers has been selling out one weekend at Red Rocks each summer for the past few years - and with good reason. The group’s harmonies are top notch, and their music varies from heartfelt, violin-riddled lullabies to leg-slappin’, Banjo filled shoe-stompers. The Avett Brothers are some of our favorite artists, and it’s a stern Ultra5280 belief that you must see them at least once, or you’re certainly missing out.
for more info: http://redrocksonline.com/concerts-events/detail/the-avett-br-7-11-2015
When: Saturday, July 12.
Doors: 8:00pm
I say this honestly, and from the heart: go.see.K. Flay.right.now. Well - at least on Saturday night. This brilliantly unique artist has been blowing up the internet for a few years now, while slowing growing her live presence.
Mixing brutally honest lyrics, entrancing beats, and a unique voice, K.Flay’s music is irresistible - perfect for jamming out, dancing, and my personal favorite - totally throwing down in the car while cruising on the highway, catching stares from all the people I pass. She was out on the entire Vans Warped Tour last year, and has toured with Denver darlings Air Dubai in the past - how many more reasons do I need to give you to make you? If you want a preview, check out “Can’t Sleep”, “Wishing It Was You”, or my favorite, “The Cops”.
tickets: http://www.larimerlounge.com/event_details.cfm?blogid=1901
When: July 10 - 12th.
When: All Day Err Day
In it’s inaugural year, The Bluebird District Music Festival already seems to be a promising new festival rising out of the East Colfax chunk of Denver. Featuring some of our favorite locals acts like Reno Divorce, Synthetic Elements, Dirty Few, and A. Tom Collins, this festival is a great, small scale festival truly celebrating some of Denver’s best. With show happening at The Bluebird Theatre, Goosetown Tavern, Southside Bar & Kitchen, Lost Lake Lounge and Park House, easy shows with great food and drinks are available all weekend long.
For more information: http://lost-lake.com/bdmf.cfm
Being a late kid is something that a lot of "kids" in our wish-washy generation of graphic designers and freelance whatevers can relate to. We're a generation that was raised on hide-n-go-seek and dial up internet. Where having a a cordless phone was a sign of class and our expansive CD collection was one place we could continually rely on for solace. Rossonian has captured our angst and confusion and bottled it up into one comprehensive disk aptly entitled, "Late Kids".
The best way to describe this album as a cohesive whole is to say that it is a matured soundtrack to my awkward teen years..where braces and unrequited love was rampant. But matured in a sense that it mimics my cry for "belonging" that my twenties have brought. Stuck in the purgatory between being an adult and still wanting to call our parents each time we get a flat tire.
The first song on the album is "Late Kids" which is reminiscent of 90's rock. It's groovy, careless and catchy. A perfect introduction to the album and a glimpse into what Rossonian is all about. This transitions us into one of their more mellow tracks, "In The Summer" which unsurprisingly is our new summer anthem. It's a little more indie-electro and personally, the sound that I appreciate most from Rossonian. The third song on the 5 song album is "Stressed Out" which transports me to angsty car rides with my Walkman and my cheek pressed aggressively to the car window... (Don't talk to me mom, you don't know me)... "The Truth" and "Sidewalks" are the last songs on the album. Both are laid-back and in the same indie-electro vein as "In The Summer". "Sidewalks" is an experiential conclusion and surprisingly my favorite song on the album. Definitely a sound and conclusion that left me hungry for more.
As a comprehensive whole, the album is great. It dips and vibes through decades of strife and ends poetically in the present. A unique sound from some Late Kids dedicated to the craft of music production. We're excited to see where their talents take them. Hopefully to some local shows around the Denver Scene!
