Psychedelic Rock Giants, The Black Angels Discuss Their Musical Evolution Before San Antonio Show
San Antonio is abuzz as the renowned psychedelic rock band, The Black Angels, prepares to light up the stage at Stable Hall this Friday. From their humble beginning in Austin, to curating their own music festival ‘Austin Psych Fest’ – now known as ‘Levitation’, The Black Angels have consistently pushed the boundaries of the genre, gaining a cult following over the years.
The Genesis of Levitation
Despite the intensive effort that goes into recording and touring, The Black Angels took on the mammoth task of launching their own music festival. The band’s vocalist and multi-instrumentalist, Alex Maas, explained that the festival originated from their desire to create a devoted space for psychedelic rock, a genre they felt was underrepresented. Their fellow band member and San Antonio native, Jake Garcia, adds that the festival not only strengthens the music scene, but also brings international travelers to their home turf, Austin, Texas.
The Undying Influence of Psych Rock
Despite some critics dismissing psychedelic music as a fleeting trend in the ’60s, the band maintains that the genre’s enduring power lies in its rule-breaking spirit. Drawing from the creative liberation characteristic of psychedelic music – from the use of fuzz pedals, unique harmonies, to progressive arrangements – The Black Angels believe that the genre continues to attract music enthusiasts seeking an unconventional sound. They point to numerous San Antonio bands such as the Pandas and the Laughing Kind, who have significantly contributed to the genre’s evolution.
Evolving Sound and Contemplative Lyrics
The band’s most recent albums, ‘Death Song’ and ‘Wildness of Mirrors,’ are noted for a harder, edgier sound also diving into more overtly political themes. Maas describes the band’s music as a reflection of society, a mirror capturing the world’s state as it changes. The band’s intention, from the beginning, has been to evolve as songwriters and musicians, resisting the temptation to be confined to one particular sound or style.
Keeping the Band Dynamic Alive
The Black Angels, nearing their 20th anniversary as a band, emphasized the importance of maintaining band harmony. They emphasize the need for open communication and respecting each others’ space, which they believe is crucial for their longevity as a group.
As they continue to push their creative boundaries within and beyond The Black Angels, the band members look forward to sharing their passion with their dedicated and ever-growing fan base. Their San Antonio show promises to be an electrifying experience, encapsulating the enduring power and endless possibilities of psychedelic rock.
Catch The Black Angels at Stable Hall, this Friday at 8 p.m. For more information, visit stablehall.com.
