American rockers, The Bright Light Social Hour, first gained attention in Austin, Texas for their incendiary live performances and innovative vision of rock and roll.
Melding southern rock, hard dance, psychedelic blues and deep soul, their debut full-length album has led to heightening critical acclaim, national touring and a rare sweep of six awards at the SXSW 2011 Austin Music Awards, including Band of the Year, Album of the Year and Song of the Year.
Born out of a university art-rock collective, Jack O’Brien (bass), Curtis Roush (guitar), A.J. Vincent (keys) and Joseph Mirasole (drums) funded their self-titled debut album independently.
To raise funds the band offered fans a chance to buy personalized love songs and videos, private meals cooked and served by the band, Spanish lessons, homemade cookies, full house/apartment cleaning, and car washes by the band (in jean cut offs, no less).
For the right price you could even own band member Jack O’Brien’s moustache.
The album serves up a sizzling combination of rock ‘n’ roll musicianship, the R&B-infused album was an incredible success – boasting solid songwriting, inspirational harmonies and just the right amount of sexy, gritty, southern psychedelica. Producer Danny Reisch utilized the best elements of vintage and modern recording to achieve a sound both forward-looking and evocative of 1970s hi-fi.
Following the album’s release, the band embarked on a heavy touring rotation, playing more than 200 shows throughout the U.S., Canada and Mexico.
For more information on the exciting 2013 Roots and Blues Festival lineup and tickets, visit www.rootsandblues.ca.