Editor’s note: This is the seventh post in a series covering the best talent at the fest. Listen to these artists-to-watch now, and get them on your festival schedule.
LEV
“Shadow” introduces us to an artist emerging from her comfort zone, stepping into the spotlight and voicing her stance. “Despite everyone else, you can still be the shadow in your own way” she says, “that’s when I decided to come out of the background into the open.” An anthem for all those that have felt overlooked or held back, it begs you to dance away the fear. Pulsing with synths and pounding drums, this song is an empowering proclamation of the ferocity that is LEV. With several performances during the festival, including The Future of Music Showcase and BMI’s Day Party at Lamberts, she is poised to break on the scene this year.
O Conqueror
Steadily dropping singles of the next several months, O Conqueror is spreading their brand of psych-tinged, alternative/indie rock. The latest produced by Frenchie Smith, they have a great single with “Lost Your Mind” and it’s accompanying video tramping around Austin. Expect lots more from them as they play all over town during the festival.
Walker Lukens
Currently in the studio with Jim Eno of Spoon, Walker Lukens & the Sidearms are crafting the funkiest, indie record we’ve seen in awhile; almost literally being bestowed the torch from Spoon. The first taste of it is “Every Night”, premiered on SPIN and showcases Lukens’ distinct brand of vocal looping combined with concise songwriting and a distinct bounce. Expect a lot from Walker Lukens during the fest, as he’s playing KGSR and 101x’s live broadcasts, Southby San Jose (SXSJ) and many more top-notch showcases.
Young Tongue
On the heels of their latest release, “Death Rattle”, released through Punctum Records and RAW PAW, Young Tongue spent a good chunk of time on the road with Mr. Gnome and have honed quite the live show. Not to be missed live in their indie band frenzy, reminiscent of early Arcade Fire, complete with masks and beer keg percussion. See them at The Future of Music Showcase along with slew of other unofficial events.
