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Almost Heaven: A Dreamy Shift in Austin Music
Austin is once again proving itself as a hub for innovative musical talent with the recent emergence of the duo Almost Heaven. Comprised of West Texas native Stefan Barraza and Austin-born drummer Jaelyn Valero, this pairing has been captivating local audiences and is preparing to launch a remarkable new chapter with their debut EP, Raw Cranium, set for release on January 30, 2026. They will kick off this new era with an EP release show at Brushy Street Commons the same evening, where fans can fully immerse themselves in their eclectic sound.
Musical Journey of Almost Heaven
The project began its life as a solo endeavor by Barraza in El Paso, where he honed his craft before moving to Austin in 2024. There, his vision expanded to encompass the high-energy duo we see today. Over the past year, Almost Heaven has refined their distinct identity, blending genres like indie dance, post-punk, and electro-pop into a cohesive sound that has taken Austin’s music scene by storm.
Exploring the Sounds of Raw Cranium
The Raw Cranium EP follows a series of well-received singles, which showcased their dynamic sound ranging from thumping dance beats to introspective melodies. Notably, tracks like “Hypnoxia” and “Fever Trying to Blow” have captured audiences with their high-energy and catchy hooks. The EP glimmers with a bloghouse revival influence, featuring engaging rhythms reminiscent of bands like LCD Soundsystem and Daft Punk.
The Release Show: A Community Celebration
The upcoming release party promises to be a celebration not just of music but also of community and creativity in Austin. Alongside Almost Heaven, the lineup will feature local acts such as Amelia's Best Friend and Witches Exist, ensuring an evening packed with diverse sounds and energetic performances. This event is an excellent opportunity for Texans to come out, support local art, and experience firsthand the vibrancy of our local music scene.
Insights from Leaders in the Local Music Scene
Barraza and Valero express their excitement for the EP, stating, "It really feels like we are initiating a big shift in our creative ecosystem. We’re excited to share it and invite people into the world of Raw Cranium." This statement highlights their commitment not only to their music but also to fostering a supportive environment for fellow artists in Austin.
Why This Matters to the Austin Community
Understanding the importance of nurturing local talent emphasizes how vital artists like Almost Heaven are to the fabric of Austin’s cultural narrative. Moments like these remind us of the power of music to bring people together and the importance of supporting local creators. The duo's journey reflects the resilience and creativity characteristic of Texas entrepreneurs, and their new label, Raw Cranium Records, stands as a beacon for innovative art in our community.
Join the excitement of local culture by attending the EP release show or streaming Raw Cranium when it drops! It’s a celebration of Austin’s thriving music scene, and your presence could make a difference to aspiring creators.
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