The Bright Light Social Hour - “Lie to Me (Große Lüge)”

SXSW 2020 - OEB Score: 7; Popularity Index: 6

Pairs Well With…Tame Impala, My Morning Jacket, White Denim

The Bright Light Social Hour (BLSH) delivered their most ambitious record yet last year with Jude Vol. 1, an album that incorporates bold psychedelic rock, krautrock rhythms, and some dream pop layering in a sound that is as intense as it is hypnotic. By increasing the tension in their sound, BLSH give their often vibing grooves more meaning, grounding their airy pop/rock sound percussively and with mature intention. (Kevin McStravick)

2017 Review: We’ve had a good deal of activity since last checking in with Austin favorites The Bright Light Social Hour - their sophomore record, a TV theme, a collaborate EP with Israel Nash - but it’s unifying statement “Tear Down That Wall” that comes right forefront. With tones of protest anthems and psych-blues-rock guitars, “Tear Down That Wall” gives off strong Neil Young vibes in the best of ways.

2014 Review: It’s been four years since Austin’s The Bright Light Social Hour released their self-titled debut, so thankfully a new record is on the horizon for 2014.  Since their hometown has been dancing to BLSH’s electro/organic blend for years, SXSW should feature a majority of new songs, many of which have been in live rotation for years themselves.  It does seem that BLSH has been developing into a more dance-friendly band with these new songs, a perfect direction for the masters of the upbeat.

2012 Review: Austin’s The Bright Light Social Hour is an interesting mix of southern rock and electronic pop, creating a nice little niche in the indie music world.  Think of My Morning Jacket’s spacier material, but with a bit of a punk vibe.  The band has gained some significant buzz in their hometown over the past couple years based on the strength of their energetic live show.  This is some fist-pumping rock, but there is a sense of musicality and experimentation engrained in the music that moves the band beyond “bar band” status.