Local Sounds
Who will be CultureMap's Last Band Standing? Meet the bands, Part Two
Round One of CultureMap's Last Band Standing competition is well underway, with 16 local bands vying for the title. Before the initial round of voting closes, we wanted you to meet the second half of the contenders. From band-nerds-turned-DJs to theatrical industrial rock, these up-and-comers are keeping the Austin music scene edgy (and a little weird).
The first round ends at midnight tonight, so take a spin through their sounds, then get to voting. Tomorrow the pool will be narrowed down to the Elite Eight.
Sphynx
Sphynx is a well-traveled band of post-pop players who left the folky sounds of their early days behind for synth-infused, danceable tunes. The band has been gaining ground on the national stage as well as here in Austin. In 2012, Sphynx was named one of the top 10 best new bands in Austin at the Austin Music Awards.
Zlam Dunk
Zlam Dunk blurs the lines of regular ol’ rock n’ roll, blending electronic back beats with punk influenced lyrics and drums. The sound is refreshing, upbeat and easily transferrable to a variety of venues — from Stubbs to Beauty Ballroom.
Texas Microphone Massacre
The third iteration of a project started by Chris Vedan and Heath Tull, Texas Microphone Massacre is more than just music — it’s a visual experience. Disguised in theatrical masks (think Comedy and Tragedy), the band plays a mix of sexy, synthy rock that feels industrial — think Reznor and Nine Inch Nails — at times.
Mole People
These Texas boys have an obsession with 1960s punk and psych that draws on everything from Aretha to Iggy. The Mole People sound is raw and approachable, mixing punk roots with pop-y garage band pleasantries.
The Bare Feat
A band of nine talented young musicians, The Bare Feat hit Austin with a unique sound that incorporates a full horns section with male and female singers. Another surprise? All of the members are students at Austin High, meaning that this young group will be influencing the Austin scene for years to come.
Light The Sun
Somewhere between Radiohead and Red Hot Chili Peppers you'll find Austin’s own indie rock band Light The Sun. Born out of the eclectic local music scene, Light The Sun’s mix of energetic pop rock and funk fits the mold of Austin’s most well-loved venues.
The Dalles
Strong, wild and curious, The Dalles are an Austin-based group of rockers merging folk rock with noisy guitar and Americana roots. Looking for a windows down, driving song? Check out “Wanderlust” and get lost down the road.
BK and Mr. E
Rarely do two dudes in full marching band attire rock a crowd. Unless they’re BK and Mr. E, Austin’s original band-geeks-turned-nighttime-DJs. The duo mixes a love of Prince, Queen and the Beach Boys with DeadMau5-inspired beats for a totally unique spectacle.
CultureMap's Last Band Standing competition runs through Oct. 2. The fun culminates in a Last Band Standing party at The Parish on Wednesday, Oct. 10, featuring sets from the final two bands (decided by you!) plus a special headliner, to be announced soon.
The Last Band Standing winner will be announced at The Parish, and the winning band will receive Artist Badges to ACL Festival. You have the chance to win ACL Fest passes, too. Just vote to register!