Worn-Tin - “Hard Erase”

SXSW 2024 - OEB Score: 7; Popularity Index: 6

Pairs Well With…Alex G, La Luz, The Growlers

Worn-Tin is a power-pop artist at his core, but he comes at it from a DIY, psych-rock angle that sands down his sound nicely. The Californian brings in surf-rock and mellow-pop influences in his music at well, a quality that keeps his sound grounded even when dream-like melodies try to take his songs on a trip. There’s reverence for 60s and 70s pop here as well, but Worn-Tin personalizes those influences with slacker-rock spirit. It can make Worn-Tin feel woozy, almost druggy at times, but it’s presented with the comfort of an isolated beach chair. Worn-Tin has been honing this sound since his debut record Thanatophobia from 2016, progressively getting less lo-fi without losing an ounce of the forthright personality to makes this music feel special. Worn-Tin showcases Friday night at Hotel Vegas Patio for Space Agency + The Nothing Song, as well as a conference-closing slot at 1:00 AM at The 13th Floor Saturday night. (Kevin McStravick)