Western Youth - “Hangin’ On”

SXSW 2020 - OEB Score: 7; Popularity Index: 2

Pairs Well With…Houndmouth, The Band, Stephen Kellogg & the Sixers

Southern rock locals Western Youth have kept themselves busy with some national touring and Austin gigs since releasing their rock-solid 2018 debut LP, performing softer rock-minded originals with one hand firmly gripped to the songwriting of their musical forefathers. Hopefully 2020 will be an opportunity for new music from the alt-country quartet, a continuation of their soulfully gritty rock/pop tracks. (Kevin McStravick)

2019 Review: Their 2018 self-titled release is a strong roots-based rock ‘n’ roll record.  In addition to my favorite song, “Valerie” features some great harmony-rich swells and “Hangin’ On” has a superior guitar jam segment.  Yes, its throwback music but the songwriting is strong and the musicianship solid. Frontman Taylor Williams admits that “Our aspirations were pretty low at the outset.” But last year, they added Austin troubadour Graham Weber to the lineup and the songwriting and band chemistry clicked into a higher gear.