When I think of a typical college party taken straight from a movie, I think of a crowd of people bopping their heads to blaring music played by a group of college kids. Their band name is somewhat stupid, and their guitarist might occasionally pluck the wrong string. But something about the performance is electric.
While this sensation can be experienced at a concert in the Moody Center or Stubb’s, there is something special about the intimacy a backyard party with garage rock brings. The proximity to the band and the rawness of the performance create a closeness that inspires dancing and conversation.
Garage rock originated in the 1960s and has grown in popularity since. With minimal traditional training and even less access to recording equipment, these musicians compose, practice and record songs out of their own garages.
There is a certain unpolished feel that comes along with the garage band aesthetic. The set’s genuine atmosphere brings its listeners together uniquely from highly produced concerts. It is real and human in a way that concerts are sometimes not allowed to be.
“(Garage style music) tends to have a very uniting quality, because you’re not going to listen to an idol or someone you’re super drawn to see,” public relations junior Anna Buendia said. “You get to see an artist (in) some of their … rawest, authentic forms.”
Students who have minimal experience with an instrument may feel scared to pick it up and play live. However, that is the beauty of sets like these. Practice with people you just met, build confidence along the way and learn as you go. Joining the UT band scene is a great way to meet and learn from other musicians while improving your own skills.
“This idea that you have to get to a certain level before you start to create music, I think (it) stifles creativity,” said Ivan Trevino, professor of practice in percussion. “Sometimes the most special songs are created not because the people are virtuosos at their instrument, but because … their different experiences and vocabulary coalesce into something that could be special.”
Connecting with the right people to explore and practice is a daunting task. Many students might feel that reaching out to pre-established bands or independent musicians is too nerve-racking, especially at a beginner level. However, places like the Cactus Cafe in the Texas Union offer weekly open mic nights where students can take advantage of the low-stakes performances. Additionally, the student-run venue The Lodge helps bridge this gap by hosting weekly jam sessions open to the public. Instruments (and food) are provided — a perfect way to join a network of musically-talented individuals and foster community among listeners.
“There (are) so many productive things that happen when you provide the space (for) people (to) do their thing, and artists will come,” Buendia said. “That’s how it’s been for all of time. … It’s just a matter of providing the space for them to be there.”
College performances don’t need to be perfect, polished ACL sets. As long as you’re having fun, the crowd will follow suit. Music is a unifying medium, and what better way to unify students than with a catchy guitar riff and a bassline that can be felt in their bones?
Sanchez is a government sophomore from Dallas, Texas.
