lineup

Born Longview Texas, John Moreland spent his early childhood moving due to his father’s job as an electrical engineer. This nomadic upbringing included time in Northern Kentucky, which sparked his affection for the Cincinnati Reds. He relocated to Tulsa, Oklahoma, at age 10, where he began playing guitar with encouragement from his father Raised in a conservative Southern Baptist household, the religious atmosphere deeply influenced his emotional and lyrical development, even as he distanced himself from faith later on. As a teenager, Moreland played in punk and hardcore bands, including local metalcore groups like Thirty Called Arson. His musical path shifted as he discovered folk and Americana influences—names like Gillian Welch, Steve Earle, Townes Van Zandt and his father’s own tastes (Neil Young, Creedence Clearwater Revival) profoundly shaped his style. After a particularly draining tour behind Birds in the Ceiling, Moreland took a yearlong break: no shows, no smartphone use for six months. This digital detox inspired the creation of Visitor, symbolizing reconnection and healing His lyrics often wrestle with faith, alienation, yearning, and the struggle to articulate truth, blended with Christian imagery even as he critically examines his upbringing. As noted in The New Yorker, Moreland doesn’t wallow in sorrow—his music turns sorrow into calm empathy, drawing listeners into honest emotional spaces.

From Beaumont, Texas, Jesse Dayton emerged playing in honky-tonk and zydeco bands in his teens’ heyday, on the Texas–Louisiana border. He cut his teeth with rockabilly outfits like The Road Kings and The Alamo Jets before going solo with his debut album Raisin' Cain, which topped the Americana radio charts in 1995. A skilled guitarist, singer, songwriter, and record producer, Dayton’s sound blends alternative country, rockabilly, outlaw country, punk, and East Texas blues. He’s been a go-to session player for legends like Waylon Jennings (stepping in after Jennings injured his thumb on Right for the Time, 1996), Johnny Cash, Willie Nelson, and Kris Kristofferson. Dayton also collaborated with filmmaker Rob Zombie, producing stage music tied to Zombie’s films—most notably for the fictional band Banjo & Sullivan on The Devil’s Rejects album. Continually inventive, Jesse has released multiple solo albums—including The Revealer (2016), The Outsider (2018), On Fire in Nashville, Mixtape Vol. 1, Gulf Coast Sessions, Beaumonster (2021), and his latest Death Wish Blues (2023, with Samantha Fish) and The Hard Way Blues (2024) His collaboration Death Wish Blues earned Grammy nominations and won OffBeat’s Best Blues Album, while the music video “Deathwish” snagged Best Music Video honors. The Hard Way Blues, produced by Shooter Jennings, climbed to #2 on the Billboard Blues Albums chart and was hailed for its electrifying storytelling and gritty guitar work. Beyond music, he’s also an author and filmmaker—penning his memoir Beaumonster and directing a feature film. In 2022, he was honored with induction into the Austin Music Hall of Fame. 

Adam Carroll’s musical biography is as winding as the stories in his songs, full of far-away places and close-to-home meditations that encompass a career built on countless shows in Texas clubs, thousands of miles on the road with his partner in life and music, Chris Carroll, accolades of all kinds, and still the burning desire to simply...write the next song. Thank goodness for that, because Carroll’s songs tap into a vein of the human condition that make them deeply moving but often humorous. As No Depression notes, “Carroll slips easily between observed detail and poetic flight, framing everyday images as literary moments. He’s particularly adept at portraiture, whether it’s a colorful hustler, a rural taxi driver or a karaoke singer, he sees what you might feel, but couldn’t verbalize ,capturing a person’s essence in the details of their physical being and actions. 

Ancient Cat Society was formed in Houston in the summer of 2010 following a serendipitous meeting at Cactus Records. Through quick, natural harmonies, the three members created a folk trio whose blend of voices evokes both reflection and whimsy Ancient Cat Society. Their sound ranges from folk to Americana, pop, indie rock, doo‑wop, and even touches of electronica, creating a uniquely familiar yet fresh musical experience. The band's members often collaborate across other groups such as Vodi, Dollie Barnes, and Buxton, frequently joking that they could headline a five-band show just by changing outfits between sets. Ancient Cat Society is deeply woven into Houston’s collaborative music scene. Members often juggle roles in multiple bands, fostering a collective spirit rather than ego-driven competition. This has enabled limitless creative cross-pollination across projects like Dollie Barnes, Vodi, and Buxton. Their storytelling and harmony-driven folk have made a notable cultural imprint—evoking deep emotional responses in live settings, as described by fans and critics alike.

Alex Maas is a renowned American musician based in Austin, Texas. He's most celebrated as the lead vocalist and multi-instrumentalist for the long-running psychedelic rock band The Black Angels, formed in 2004 in Austin.

Roots in Austin’s Psychedelic Scene: Maas grew up in Houston and first discovered Austin as a teen—drawn by its inclusive, creative vibe, especially during high school visits to his sisters at the University of Texas. Over the years, he emerged as a key figure in Austin's psych-rock community, co-founding Austin Psych Fest (later rebranded as Levitation Festival) in 2008 alongside Christian Bland and others. Levitation has become a global destination for psych music fans. In 2020, Maas released his solo debut album, Luca, named after his son—whose name means “bringer of light”. He co-produced the record with Brett Orrison at Spaceflight Studios in Austin, collaborating with musicians from Widespread Panic, The Sword, Jack White's band, and more. Luca marked a departure from the heavy swagger of The Black Angels, steering into softer, more reflective territory with folk, mellotron textures, strings, and intimate songwriting. Tracks like Special, 500 Dreams, and Slip Into offer gentle lullabies for his son, while songs such as American Conquest and The City grapple with broader, darker themes. Critics praised its beauty and vulnerability, calling Luca “one of the most beautiful and hopeful albums of the year” and applauding its introspective tone.

Brent Best Born in Austin Texas relocated to a small Texas town early in life and later attended the University of North Texas in Denton. There, he formed the alt-country rock band Slobberbone in 1992. Initially playing local gigs (sometimes just for beer), the band built momentum and released their debut Crow Pot Pie in 1994. Slobberbone's sound—an energetic mix of roots rock, alt-country, and gritty storytelling—earned them cult status. Stephen King notably praised their song “Gimme Back My Dog” as “one of the three greatest rock‑n‑roll songs of all time”  The band’s catalog includes albums like Barrel Chested (1997), Everything You Thought Was Right Was Wrong Today (2000), and Slippage (2002). A best‑of compilation, Bees and Seas, came out in 2016 via New West Records.

In 2015, he embarked on a solo path with the album Your Dog, Champ—a project nearly a decade in the making, self-produced in his home studio in Denton (Transient Camp Recordings)The album explores dark, Southern Gothic narratives—covering themes like dysfunctional families, murder, mental illness, and introspection. Its style is a stark, folk‑and‑country-tinged tapestry with haunting lyricism. Critics compared his storytelling to literary heavyweights like Cormac McCarthy and praised the emotional depth and humanity in even his most tragic characters.  At live shows, he continues to perform both solo material and fan favorites from Slobberbone and The Drams, occasionally reuniting with full band lineups. Best is highly regarded within the Denton and broader alt-country community for his lyrical depth, blending gritty Americana with emotionally charged narrative arcs. He’s acknowledged as a storyteller who meticulously crafts albums that feel cinematic—drawing listeners into the world of his characters.

Brightwire is a Houston-based Americana/folk-rock band rooted in a household of musicians from Southeast Texas. Their sound blends folk, rock, country, and punk, weaving inclusive stories about the struggles and experiences of everyday life. Their debut   A Place to Call Home (2018) “live plus” album—mostly duo acoustic work with guest contributions—captured their earliest sound and introduced songs like Crystal Beach Cracked, Flawed and Frayed (2021)Their second full-length album, named one of the best Houston albums of 202 1 by the Houston Chronicle, is praised for its raw charm, rich vocal harmonies, and instrumental depth—honoring a sense of togetherness post-pandemic. Ghosts Best Left Alone (EP, 2022) A mix of three brand-new tracks and a rework of Crystal Beach from their debut, this EP emerged from the creative downtime during the pandemic and kept the momentum alive.  Here, But Gone (Full-length, 2024)
Their third full record, described by Houston Chronicle as part alt-country, part punk‑rock “hardcore record” due to its driving rhythmic pace, is intended as a high‑energy, road‑trip soundtrack. Recorded in Baytown's Bear Cave Studios between April–September 2023, it features Samuel Barker on multiple instruments, Kim Barker (vocals, organ), Michael Helfenstein (dobro, electric steel), and violin by Liz Sloan. The album’s creation was deeply personal: Ship’s Wheel Saturday Night was co-written with Samuel’s late brother Daniel, and Threatening to Rain was based on texts from collaborator Ben Hall, both of whom had passed away Houston Chronicle included Here, But Gone in its "22 Houston music releases you need to hear in 2024," calling it their most driving work yet with punk-infused alt-country roots. Their earlier albums, Cracked, Flawed and Frayed and Ghosts Best Left Alone, received praise for their emotional resonance and craft—often compared to the lyrical storytelling of John Prine and Tom Petty. They also host the podcast Music in the Minor League, spotlighting independent artists, venue owners, and the indie music ecosystem. Brightwire continues to perform actively, both locally and on the road: Past performances span a wide tour history—from regional shows in Houston, Galveston, and beyond—to multi‑state tours across the Midwest and Northeast.

 Aaron Stephens doesn’t just perform—he reveals. With roots deeply entwined in the soul of classic Chicago blues and the rich cultural heritage of South Texas, his music serves as a bridge between worlds, eras, and hearts. A singer, songwriter, and slide guitarist, Aaron crafts songs that feel both timeless and personal, shaped by grit, grace, and a fearless sense of vulnerability. From the very first note, he invites you into his world—a place where blues, folk, jazz, and modern textures blend into something intimate and expansive. His voice is warm and weathered, resonating with stories lived and lessons learned, while his guitar speaks in fluid, expressive phrases that feel like confessions. It’s no wonder his sound has earned him a spot on the stages of Austin City Limits Music Festival, where his performance left echoes far beyond the fields of Zilker Park. Whether in front of thousands or a dimly lit club, Aaron’s presence is magnetic, rooted in authenticity and emotional depth. “Like Stephens' tattoo, being ‘Soulful’ is a vulnerability that bares the soul so it can touch yours.” And that’s exactly what his music does—it reaches past the world's noise and lands somewhere deeper, more honest. Each song is an invitation to feel, connect, and be moved. Aaron Stephens doesn’t just play music. He shares something real—and it stays with you, long after the last note fades. 

Chris Olsen is a songwriter and storyteller with the grit of the open road in his voice. A former truck driver and Georgia transplant now rooted in Galveston, Texas, Chris carries with him the dust, stories, and long miles of a life lived between small towns and big skies.

Shaped by the timeless songwriting of John Prine and Guy Clark, he writes with equal parts humor, heartache, and hard-earned wisdom. His songs feel like conversations overheard at a late-night bar, where the jukebox leans country but the stories cut straight to the bone. From highways to harbor towns, Chris Olsen’s music is a testament to the power of simple words telling complex truths. He’s not just a songwriter—he’s a keeper of stories, sung the way only someone who’s lived them can.

Two Tons of Steel formed in San Antonio, Texas and has been active since 1990. Their eclectic sound blends rockabilly, country, alternative country, and Americana. Progenitors of the band began as the Dead Crickets—a trio led by Kevin Geil (vocals/guitar), Ric Ramirez (upright bass), and Chris Dodds (drums). By 1996, they rebranded as Two Tons of Steel—partly inspired by Geil’s experience with his massive Cadillac ("weighs like two tons") and a song he composed drawing on that imagery. The band built a grassroots following in local clubs and hangouts, gaining traction that eventually landed them a Billboard magazine cover and numerous appearances at prestigious venues like the Grand Ole Opry. The band appears in the IMAX film “Texas: The Big Picture” and a roots-country documentary featuring their performance of “King of a One Horse Town,” showcased at Nashville’s Country Music Hall of FameThey've also toured internationally, with performances in Cuba, Europe, and perennial appearances at the Grand Ole Opry.

Born in Quantico, Virginia, but raised in Houston, Texas. Known for his taller-than-life persona—standing at six-foot-five, often spotted in vibrant polyester attire. Once a standout quarterback at Lamar University in the late 1980s. The football program ended in 1989, prompting his pivot toward music. In 1996 he teamed up with songwriter Ronnie Walker to release Ride Shotgun.  He Released Biggest Fool In Town in 1998—packed with honky-tonk flair and originals like “Cry You A Bayou” and “Two Swingin’ Doors” Formation of John Evans Band: This group marked a shift to harder rocking, genre-blending music. Key albums include: Out of Control (2002) Circling the Drain (2005) Ramblin’ Boy (2006)
After his band phase, Evans released solo albums: Lucky 13 (2008) Lolly Gaggin’ (2009)
Polyester (2016) Polyester is widely seen as his most personal work—rooted in reflection, psych-colored country-folk, and emotional depth. Notably inspired by the memory of his late daughter, Abigail. Evans is also a respected producer, known for his multi-genre Americana approach—melding blues rock, country, and roots rock. His music is best described as roots-rock delivered with punk-rock energy Co-wrote “KMAG YOYO” with Hayes Carll; performed it together on The Tonight Show. His music has featured in Country Strong and the series finale of Friday Night Lights.

Singer, songwriter, guitarist & producer, originally from Tucson, Arizona, now based in Texas. Known for a distinctive blend of Americana, folk, country, rock, and traditional Mexican music—often described as Border rock or Spanglish genre-bending. Cousin of Linda Ronstadt; grew up steeped in Mexican music, singing in Spanish before English. Lisa Formed the duo Sisters Morales with her sister Roberta in 1989. They released multiple albums blending English and Spanish, touring widely and earning critical acclaim.
My Beautiful Mistake — Solo debut in 2011, heralding her emergence as a solo creative voice.
Luna Negra & the Daughter of the Sun (2018) — Her second solo project, earning praise as “one of the most multifaceted artists to watch” by Rolling Stone.
Rain in the Desert (2022) — A 5-song EP featuring tracks like “Freedom” and a duet “Flyin’ & Cryin’” with Rodney Crowell, recorded at Sonic Ranch in Texas.
She Ought to Be King (2022) — Her third solo album, continuing her evolution as an empowered songwriter.
Sonora (2024) — Her fourth solo LP, out September 13, 2024, featuring collaborations with JoJo Garza (Los Lonely Boys), Tish Hinojosa, her son Thomas Spencer, and a posthumous co-write with Roberta.
She produced Hayes Carll’s debut album Flowers & Liquor in 2002. Recorded a cover of While My Guitar Gently Weeps featuring David Hidalgo (Los Lobos) and Henry Garza (Los Lonely Boys). She is actively involved in community programs through the Recording Academy, including outreach, advocacy, and education projects.

Born in Independence, Missouri, he grew up in a family of farmers and preachers and honed his early musical skills singing in church choirs and playing trombone in school bands At age 16, he adopted the nickname "Shake," inspired by claiming his name was “William Shakespeare” when asked, and the name stuck. Russell started performing in Kansas City coffeehouses, where he met Dana Cooper. He also joined John Vandiver’s band, Ewing Street Times, and followed Vandiver to Texas in the early 1970s—first to Houston, then to Austin, a formative period he describes as his “school” for songwriting and performance. His first album, “Songs on the Radio”, was released in 1978 with Dana Cooper. He continued collaborating with Cooper through the early ’80s, resulting in Shake Russell/Dana Cooper Band (1981) and Comin’ Home (1981)Later, he formed the Shake Russell Band, releasing Time Spent (1985) and Denim & Pearls (1988) From 1989 to 1995, he performed with Jack Saunders, producing multiple albums on Jalapeno Records. In the 2000s, he formed the Shake Russell Trio (with Mike Roberts and Doug Floyd), releasing live albums such as Live at Gruene Hall (2007) and Live at the Centrum (2013, with Michael Hearne)Since 2013, Russell performs solo and alongside Michael Hearne, with recent releases including Only as Strong as Your Dreams (2016), Chasing the Song (2018), and many others from his 30-album catalog Russell is a prolific writer—many of his songs became hits when recorded by major artists: Ricky Skaggs: You’ve Got a Lover Waylon Jennings & Jessi Colter: Deep in the West Clint Black: Put Yourself in My Shoes, One More Payment, Our Kind of Love, You Don’t Need Me Now Miranda Lambert: You Wouldn’t Know Me—went Platinum via her 2018 album The Weight of These Wings.
He’s received multiple accolades BMI Million-Air Awards (twice) for songs exceeding one million U.S. radio performances BMI Writer’s Awards (four times) Texas Music Association Entertainer of the Year (2004 & 2008), plus a Lifetime Achievement Award in 2013 Inducted into the Austin Songwriters Association Music Legends Hall of Fame in 2016. His music blends love songs and ballads with rockabilly, soulful R&B, and folk-rock, all woven into a distinctive Americana style with rich harmonies . Influences include Bob Dylan, Lennon/McCartney, Leonard Cohen, Cat Stevens, James Taylor, Robbie Robertson, and his mentor John Vandiver .Over a career spanning more than 50 years, Shake Russell has built an enduring presence in Texas and the broader Americana music scene. With 30 albums released and hundreds of compositions recorded by stars, he remains recognized as a true Texas music legend 

Matt the Electrician hails from San Francisco, having spent his formative years across Northern California and Southern Oregon—a backdrop that shaped his musical sensibilities from a young age. He began performing in coffeehouses at just 15 years old, an early immersion into songwriting and live performance. In the mid-1990s, Matt moved to Austin, Texas, in pursuit of fresh creative opportunities. To pay the bills, he worked as an electrician, wiring homes in the sweltering Texas heat by day and playing gigs at night. Introducing himself—“Hi, I’m Matt, and I’m an electrician”—earned him the memorable stage name Matt the Electrician, and it stuck, even after he left his tools behind. Described as indie-folk, folk-pop, and neo-folk, Matt’s music blends Americana roots with warm, evocative lyricism. He's been praised for capturing the beauty in everyday life and delivering heartfelt, character-rich songs. Critically, he's been likened to “a young Paul Simon wrapped around a Tom Waits heart. After dedicating himself fully to music, he began touring beyond Texas—favoring house concerts and indie folk circuits across Alaska, Japan, and Denmark. He’s released 12 albums by 2017, including a notable vinyl project culminating in The Doubles (2017), where each 45-RPM vinyl featured different collaborators, later full-fleshed out with his regular trio. His music has been featured in various media platforms—TV, film, radio, and advertising. Songs like “Valedictorian,” “Got Your Back,” and “I Remember” have appeared in shows such as Eli Stone, Army Wives, This American Life, and the movie Playing Mona Lisa. 

A native of Austin, Texas, Marina’s musical journey began early. As a child, she played her guitar tirelessly—“’til her little-kid fingers bled”—and by age 12, her mother gifted her a Marshall amp stack instead of a party dress, marking the start of a lifelong devotion to music. From 2005 to 2015, she led the Houston power trio The Guppies, sharing stages with iconic acts like Aerosmith, Jethro Tull, Kansas, Deep Purple, and Joe Satriani. After going solo, she’s opened for luminaries such as Terri Hendrix, Lloyd Maines, Joe Ely, Hayes Carll, Shake Russell, and Jesse Dayton. Following the loss of her mother to breast cancer in 2018, Marina transformed profound grief into creative momentum by building her own home studio, dubbed Two-Fisted Pixie, and released the album Austin to Houston. Released in 2023, Texcentric is a six-song EP recorded in Houston, reflecting both classic roots blues and modern sensibilities. “Dummin’ Down” jolts listeners with crunchy, bluesy riffs, while her cover of Townes Van Zandt’s If I Needed You offers a masterful. Marina describes Texcentric as a musical crossroads between Austin and Houston, where her songwriting identity was forged. Austin to Houston charts a deeply personal journey, underpinned by storytelling, social insight, and gritty conviction. Marina produced, engineered, and performed nearly every part herself—while notable collaborators include Lloyd Maines on pedal steel and others on bass and percussion. Marina’s third full-length LP and a bold fusion of Texas boogie, Americana, country-rock, world-beat, and bluegrass. Tracks like “It’s All Messed Up” sparkle with raw energy and guitar-driven groove—its narrative inspired by a wild, true tale involving a baby squirrel and a woman jumping from a truck near Houston. Other standouts include the reggae-tinged “Mind’s Eye,” the haunting “S.O.S.,” atmospheric “The Hollywood Sign,” instrumental “I Don’t Know,” and the closing meditative “One More Song (Rewind).” Reviews praise Marina’s authenticity, musicianship, and genre-blending style—likening her to Lucinda Williams yet with her own polished edge. Highlights include her fluid guitar, commitment to storytelling, and her “formidable edge that’s entertaining & she can play!

Possessed by Paul James is the stage name of Konrad Wert, an American singer-songwriter and musician known for blending folk, alternative country, bluegrass, blues, and punk influences into powerful solo performances .Born in Immokalee, Florida, Wert grew up in a Mennonite community. His upbringing involved frequent acapella hymns and a deeply musical  environment rooted in faith. His musical evolution led him toward punk and blues, but his journey into music was alongside a dedicated career in special education teaching, which he continues in Kerrville, Texas. The act’s name pays tribute to his heritage—“Paul James” honors his father and grandfather, while the phrase “Possessed by” denotes a deep-rooted, inherited creative spirit. His 2013 album earned attention from NPR, CMT, and MTV, and was dubbed a “one-man folk wonder” by The New York Times after a standout performance at the Pickathon festival Feed the Family won an Independent Music Award for Best Alt-Country Album in 2011. Critics praise As We Go Wandering (2020) for its thoughtful lyricism and dynamic arrangements, demonstrating that intimate acoustic storytelling can still deliver rich, emotional weight. His live shows are renowned for their intensity, emotional honesty, and the way he channels musical roots—from folk and bluegrass to blues and punk—into singular, immersive performances.

A rock/country duo hailing from Denton, Texas, blending gritty rock ’n’ roll with West Coast country vibes. Joe Forest – guitar (noted for a “twangy Willie-esque” style) and lead vocals Dani Osborn – drums and backing vocals, laying down punchy rhythms Their sound merges strong lyrical storytelling with stripped-down, lo-fi simplicity that feels much bigger on stage than you'd expect. Perfect for fans of raw, authentic performance. Debut Release: In April 2024, they self-recorded and released their debut album Limerence, capturing the energy of their live performances in an intimate studio setting .

Reviews and accolades highlight their lyrical depth and creativity: Joey Guerra (Houston Chronicle): “Think Gillian Welch and David Rawlings by way of Houston.”
n from Harlingen), make up the duo known as Grifters & Shills. They first met in a classic rock/blues jam band in 2008, discovering not only a musical connection but a deep personal and creative chemistry. Their style blends “East Texas piney-woods harmony singers” with the intensity of rock ’n’ roll—what they call "high lonesome harmonies with a rock n roll soul". It’s been likened to an amped-up Johnny Cash & June Carter and compared to Gillian Welch and David Rawlings, “by way of Houston". Live, they’re a force of multi-instrumental energy—John and Rebecca cycle through guitars (including archtop and cigar-box), banjo, harmonica, homemade suitcase drums, acoustic bass, harmonicas, kazoo, and more. Their performances contrast raw power and intimate vulnerability. Described onstage as "high-energy roots music" featuring strong vocal harmonies paired with guitar, banjo, percussion, harmonica, and bass. Their music embraces folk, roots, blues, gospel, and Americana, exploring themes of darkness, redemption, sin, hope, and personal transformation.

Robert Kuhn was born and raised in Houston, Texas. After high school, he embarked on an adventurous journey across multiple continents, eventually settling into a wandering lifestyle that spanned about a dozen years. During this period, he lived in New York, Pennsylvania, Australia, Chile, Colombia, Costa Rica, and Nicaragua—engaging in a colorful array of occupations and creative ventures. His unusual trajectory once saw him transform from an Academic All-American linebacker into a fisherman and farmer on Nicaragua’s Little Corn Island. In 2010, Kuhn returned to Texas and took up residence in Galveston. Embracing the moniker Galvezton—a clever play on “Galveston,” with an alternate spelling to avoid search confusion and to reflect the Spanish heritage of the region—he channeled local spirit and history into his trademark name .Under his given name, he released two albums—Everybody Knows (2014) and Maria the Gun (2017). Upon returning and forming Galvezton, his music further evolved in style and thematic depth. In April 2020, during the early impact of the pandemic, he released Persevere, an album produced amid emotional and physical hardship following a serious van accident. The album was later reissued under the Galvezton moniker in late 2022, and he accompanied this with the release of his autobiographical novel Leaving Is Returning. Kuhn is also a writer. He compiled and edited extensive journals he kept during his travels—covering twelve years of intense life experiences—into Leaving Is Returning, an autobiographical novel published via indie press. The narrative reflects gritty yet poetic motifs: “broken hearts, broken backs, failed marriages, violence, riches, drugs, labor, poverty, music, poetry, dirt and salt.”Beyond his solo work, Kuhn is deeply immersed in Galveston’s cultural fabric. He spearheaded the Save The Locals concert series in 2022 and conceived the La Izquierda Music & Surf Festival, held annually at Beach Central Park. These events align with his philosophy of building community and celebrating local artists, surfers, and culture.

India Tigers in Texas hail from Galveston, Texas. Their music blends a “…mixture of lysergic awareness and impending destruction,” featuring warped, fuzzed-out guitar leads that evoke “cascading neon waves on a desolate shore post-apocalypse”. This places them firmly within the psychedelic or “psych-garage” scene. They’ve quickly made their mark on the Texas psychedelic circuit. Bands they’ve performed alongside include The Shivas, Death Valley Girls, Frankie and the Witch Fingers, Acid Mothers Temple, Alex Maas, Christian Bland and the Revelators, and Bubble Puppy. Their self-titled debut album, India Tigers in Texas, dropped on May 4, 2019 via Austin’s Mas Music Records. Known for their high-energy and “mind-bending” live performances, the band continues to develop their psych-garage style while expanding into new sonic territories 

 Little Mazarn is an experimental folk collaboration rooted in Austin, Texas. The duo originally formed in 2015, led by songwriter/vocalist/multi-instrumentalist Lindsey Verrill (she/her) and Jeff Johnston (he/him), who plays singing saw and various instruments. The project started in 2015 as a banjo-and-singing-saw duo with imaginative minimalism and Appalachian inspiration. Their name, Little Mazarn, comes from a river in northwest Arkansas. Their sound blends 1960s primitive folk and early "high lonesome" Appalachian stylings with modern minimalism and ambient influences They create expansive soundscapes that feel grounded in place—“a cool float a few feet from the ground through a dimly lit, almost familiar forest”—balancing emptiness and emotion with restraint. The duo is known for playing in unconventional venues: dry riverbeds, abandoned buildings, galleries, small clubs, theaters, and churches across the U.S. and Canada. For Mustang Island, the ensemble expanded to include Carolina Chauffe (they/them), making the band a trio. Lindsey’s ethereal vocals and Jeff’s singing saw now sit amid unexpected textures—bombastic drums, dissonant synths, and orchestral flourishes—while still embracing spacious, community-minded songwriting.
 

Kevin Anthony & G-Town bring a truly unique blend of musical traditions rooted in the Gulf Coast. Their “Gulf Coast Sound” fuses country, Cajun, blues, Mexican, Tex-Mex, swamp pop, folk, and Western swing—creating a lively, danceable musical gumbo that evokes backwoods honky-tonks and backyard barbecues. Their music is expressive in English, French, and Spanish, paying homage to the diverse cultural tapestry of their region. Kevin Anthony is a native of Galveston, Texas, a Ball High School alumnus. He ventured away from the Island post-graduation to Houston, then New York City, where he worked in electronic music production for television and advertising, including for MTV, VH1, Nickelodeon, and under a Warner Brothers contract—until the aftermath of 9/11 shifted his path. A musical revelation while hearing the Las Bayous City Ramblers triggered a return to his roots—studying fiddle in swampy Louisiana and forming Kevin Anthony & the Twin City Playboys in Minnesota. He officially returned to Galveston in 2011 and re-formed his band—committing to the “Gulf Coast Sound” and creating original works deeply attached to place and tradition. 

The Montvales are a deeply evocative folk-country duo comprised of Sally Buice and Molly Rochelson. Born and raised in Knoxville, Tennessee, they honed their craft busking amidst the lively backdrop of Elvis impersonators and musical-saw players in Market Square—an early stage that shaped their “uniquely boisterous harmonies and driving, joyful sound.” Their formative years included performances on local Americana radio station WDVX and participation in old-time music circles around town, even playing for “a local fiddler’s dairy cows,” marking the beginning of their distinctive DIY approach. After pursuing separate paths for several years, Sally and Molly reunited in 2019, writing and  creating their debut album Heartbreak Summer Camp. They later relocated to Cincinnati, Ohio, which now serves as their creative home base, from where they continually tour and produce intimate, narrative-driven songs that explore themes of self-determination and personal connection. Their latest album, Born Strangers, was produced by Mike Eli LoPinto (notable for his work with Chris Stapleton and Emily Nenni), and recorded at Tractor Shed Studio in Nashville. It has earned features in media outlets such as The Bluegrass Situation, Holler., The American Songwriter, The Bluegrass Standard, and Twangville. Their harmonies are both seamless and striking, offering moments of tension and unity. Instrumentally, they blend old-time arrangements with a modern edge, incorporating banjo, guitar, pedal steel, drums, and—even on track “Say the Word”—electric guitar. The Montvales stand out for their genuine artistry, built on heartfelt friendship and years of shared musical exploration. Their music radiates a compelling blend of raw emotional honesty, socio-political awareness, and vibrant folk energy—drawing comparisons to acts like Indigo Girls and The Chicks for their willingness to weave activism into melody. 

Gabe Wootton hails from Ponta, Texas, and has been performing off and on for nearly 20 years as a largely solo act. His style is hard to pin down—he blends Americana, acoustic, country, folk, blues, and pop, with a strong leaning toward folk songwriting traditions. He values storytelling and finds melody in everyday life, inspired by the varied landscapes and human stories across Texas and beyond. Gabe’s shows are spontaneous and informal, with no fixed setlists. Instead, he builds rapport by weaving stories and reacting to audience responses—his performances can sway between humor, sadness, and uplifting moments. His songwriting is influenced by communication and authenticity. Upon discovering artists like Kris Kristofferson and John Prine, he felt their music was more like a conversation than mere entertainment. He also cites Guy Clark, Townes Van Zandt, Blaze Foley, and Tom Waits as guiding influences who taught him the power of staying uncategorized. Gabe has said that he was never after traditional stardom—instead, after he began playing shows, he realized conventional employment no longer suited him. He prefers working with integrity, saying that he’d rather do construction or similar work to pay rent than conform to the pressures of the industry. He released a live recording from the Old Quarter Acoustic Cafe on Old Quarter Records. This album captures the essence of a Gabe Wootton show.

John “Tex” Renner is a folk singer-songwriter rooted in Galveston, Texas. Born October 12, 1953, in Houston, Texas—a "boomtown" and “product of my moment in space/time”. His musical influences began with gospel singing in church, exposure to pop stations and movie musicals in his mother's kitchen, and playing during the “folk-scare” bridging the eras from Buddy Holly to The Beatles. The album A .44 In An 88, released October 17, 2024, was recorded primarily at Galveston’s iconic Old Quarter Acoustic Café ls), and more. His style embraces acoustic Americana, folk, cowboy ballads, and country-folk — deeply rooted in Texas landscapes and lore. Tex Renner is a recognized figure in Galveston’s music scene: Tex shares more of his stories and insights through media appearances: He was the guest on Episode 61 of the podcast “Music in the Minor League” (May 2025), where he's described as "fellow songwriter and all around awesome person".

Zach Aaron is often described as an “old soul” whose sound exudes authenticity and a rugged charm. He sings with an "elegantly tarnished tenor" voice and combines intricate finger-picked guitar work with lyrics that balance raw honesty and poetic abstraction—creating a sound both traditional and fresh. Hailing from Cleveland, Texas, Aaron’s life is as eclectic as his music. He’s taken on a variety of roles, including odd jobs across the South, serving several years in the U.S. Air Force, working as a horseshoe farrier, and participating in the amateur Texas rodeo circuit as a saddle bronc rider. His experiences provide rich storytelling material that anchors his music in real-life narratives and emotional truth. Firmly rooted in Americana, Aaron’s sound draws inspiration from revered artists like Townes Van Zandt, Adam Carroll, Doc Watson, and Evan Felker of the Turnpike Troubadours. His music resonates with stories of heartache, resilience, grit, and the quiet beauty in everyday life.

 Jimmy is a Houston-based singer-songwriter, known for his unique daytime job as a night-time landscaper and his quirky penchant for all things “jellicle” (though he humorously notes his exception: Cats) His early musical influences were deeply shaped by 1970s singer-songwriters: Jim Croce, Neil Young, James Taylor, Gerry Rafferty, among others. These were “forced” into his childhood attention while riding in his mom's car. Weekend drives to South Texas with his father and grandfather added country icons to the mix—Waylon Jennings, Willie Nelson, Hank Williams Sr. & Jr., Don Williams, and more. He was first exposed to the Texas singer-songwriter culture in local ice-houses and beer joints, where his father conducted his “Miller Lite temperature blog,” sparking Jimmy’s passion for songwriting. He persuaded his dad to buy him a pawn-shop guitar and began learning Townes Van Zandt songs—a turning point in his creative journey. After returning from Colorado in 1998, Jimmy fronted an alt-country band called Jimmy James and The Enablers, delivering fan favorites like “Where the Hell’s the Johnny Cash in Your Jukebox?” and “Sweet Marie” . A conventional approach to recording with investors and producers didn't pan out. After becoming a father, Jimmy paused his music career, tried a "real job," but the songwriting itch remained strong. Jimmy Pizzitola is a uniquely Texan singer-songwriter whose musical journey began with early exposure to '70s storytelling music and deepened through country-infused family road trips and local honky-tonk scenes. From leading a local alt-country band to gaining literary recognition and releasing his debut in 2010, he continues to carve his place in Americana with heartfelt lyrics, wry humor, and soulful country-folk stylings.

 Born in Fort Worth, Texas. Raised in a creative household—his father was a professional drummer who mentored him, nurturing his early love for music. Stefan’s earliest musical memories include his father performing "Abracadabra" and singing in local venues, deeply influencing his artistic path. He’s been creating and performing since his teenage years, guided by his father’s example and time spent in nature. Prigmore’s sound is often described as rustic, raw, and authentic Americana-folk roots—marked by stark, sincere lyrics and a dynamic, distinctive voice. According to Americana Highways, “Stefan’s greatest strength is his Prine-like ability to transport the listener to the bottom without transforming himself or the listener into a victim.” Other critics describe his music as “gritty, raw and uncompromising.” In 2017, Prigmore toured Europe extensively—39 shows—as an opening act for Daniel Payne, earning praise as a “diamond in the rough.” Fort Worth magazine nominated him as “Songwriter of the Year” in 2018. Descriptors like “southern-folk songwriter” and his roots in Fort Worth evoke a sense of place and introspection in his music

Kevin Anderson is known for crafting acoustic, reflective, and emotionally resonant songs, described as weaving themes of "joy, sorrow, and self-reflection" into lingering melodies. His latest album, Proletariat, dropped in June 2023. It features ten tracks—including "What Went Wrong," "Big Head Small Hands," "Johannesburg," and the title track "Proletariat"—all written by Anderson. The album was recorded at Audiopharm Studios, produced and mixed by Jonathan Jourdan, and mastered by Jerry Tubb at Terra Nova Mastering. He also appears on the roster of singer-songwriters for Galveston’s La Izquierda Surf & Music Festival, emphasizing his role in the island’s local music scene.  A soulful and evocative singer-songwriter hailing from the Gulf Coast, Kevin Anderson draws lyrical strength from emotional landscapes—spanning joy, sorrow, and introspective reflection.
 

Jacob Furr is an award-winning, genre-fluid singer-songwriter and multi-instrumentalist hailing from Fort Worth, Texas. His work seamlessly blends West Coast folk with the dusty panoramas of West Texas, weaving themes of love, grief, loss, and healing throughout his music. Inspired by the Texas songwriter tradition, Furr’s writing is deeply narrative and place-driven—with vivid imagery like storms on the Llano Estacado or life-boat cemeteries in California. His sound stretches from intimate, acoustic tales reminiscent of early John Ritter or Bert Jansch, to more expansive, electric folk-rock anthems.  Fort Worth Weekly “Songwriter of the Year” (2014 & 2015), Bluelight Live Songwriter Competition winner (2015), and “Best Folk Artist” (2023) Nationally touring since around 2014, he’s opened for artists like Peter Case, Dan Bern, Shovels & Rope, Devotchka, and Over the Rhine. The devastating loss of his wife Christina to brain cancer in 2013 became the emotional cornerstone for his music. He channeled his grief into Trails & Traces, then continued processing through Sierra Madre, leading to Turning—a work he describes as affirming his readiness to embrace joy again. As a founding member of Hear Fort Worth, Furr is deeply embedded in Fort Worth’s DIY music scene. He has also been a vocal supporter of Amplify817, the music-focused programming and entrepreneurial incubator at the Fort Worth Public Library. Jacob Furr is a deeply introspective artist whose songwriting maps a personal journey of grief toward healing, layered with earthy storytelling and folk-rock sensibility. With a strong commitment to his community and a knack for heartfelt narrative, his work resonates with both local listeners and the broader folk/Americana audience.