Top Tucson Tunes: The Unmissable Music Highlights of the Year

As 2024 nears its end, local music critics Julie Jennings Patterson and Xavier Omar Otero from Tucson Sentinel spotlight some standout releases from the year. Their selections reflect the vibrant sound and creativity emerging from the city.

Freezing Hands – Live at Tap and Bottle

The Freezing Hands embody the essence of power pop, functioning more as an exclusive club than merely a band. Led by songwriter and guitarist Travis Spillers, they gather weekly to share music and camaraderie, crafting memorable pop hooks. Their live album, recorded at Tap and Bottle, captures the raw energy of their performances, evoking the spirit of classic acts like The Knack and Quick. Friend and fellow musician Patrick Haight of Spot on Sound recorded the gig, adding an extra layer of authenticity.

Female Gaze – Tender Futures

After a four-year journey, Tender Futures marks a significant evolution for Female Gaze from indie rock to a more experimental sound. The album flows seamlessly, designed for continuous listening. It offers an accessible take on prog rock, reminiscent of cozy comforts rather than the complexities of its predecessors.

Gutter Town – The Shed Sessions

Hailing back to 2019, fans are finally catching on to Gutter Town’s unique outlaw cowpunk style. Their latest release showcases a maturation in sound, blending influences from country legends like Hank Williams while the band continues to grow more captivating with each performance.

Valley Fever – Valley Fever

Valley Fever transports listeners back to classic 70s rock with a deep appreciation for California country. Their music reflects an amalgamation of Southern rock influences and displays an undeniable enthusiasm, effectively drawing audiences into their transformative sound.

Class – A Healthy Alternative

Class’s prolific output is redefining local punk music, releasing album after album that consistently outperforms previous efforts. Drawing from their deep punk roots while hearkening back to classic inspirations, they remind listeners of the genre’s raw energy and appeal.

Joe Jennings MVPs – Nothing Wrong with Giving Up

Multi-instrumentalist Joe Jennings’s debut record showcases an appealing blend of West Coast power pop and 80s pub rock nostalgia. Produced with help from local talent, including Matt Rendon, it stands out as a vibrant addition to Tucson’s indie soundscape.

Lenguas Largas – Warm Maneuvers

The remastered version of Warm Maneuvers elevates Lenguas Largas’s previous work, delivering a powerful blend of post-punk and garage sounds. This album’s improved production brings to life the band’s live energy and creativity.

The Resonars – Electricity Plus

Matt Rendon’s project, The Resonars, shines with Electricity Plus, a testament to his talent as a one-man band. The album features a rich tapestry of sounds, showcasing Rendon’s versatility and creativity across multiple instruments.

Birds and Arrows – Twisted Hills/Wicked

While technically released in 2022, the cinematic quality of Birds and Arrows’ music merits a mention. Their engaging visuals elevate the experience, making their art both timeless and relevant.

Laura Jean Band – Shadow Ridge

With a vintage vibe, Laura Jean Band’s latest offering pulls from classic country influences, delivering warm melodies perfect for leisurely afternoons. The frontwoman’s engaging stage presence draws audiences in, ensuring memorable performances.

Ryan David Green – Off and Running

Known for his work in the duo Ryanhood, Green steps into a new realm with acoustic jazz-inspired instrumentals. The joy he pours into his music resonates, showcasing his technical skills and artistic spirit.

Sophia Rankin and the Sound – Natural Disaster

Emerging talent Sophia Rankin captivates with her blend of pop, folk, and Americana on Natural Disaster. The album underscores her songwriting talent, paired with electrifying live performances.

Kid Congo Powers & The Pink Monkey Birds – That Delicious Vice

Kid Congo Powers infuses his latest work with influences from the Sonoran Desert, resulting in a dynamic soundscape. Tracks like “Ese Vicio Delicioso” incorporate Latin rhythms, engaging listeners in a narrative of adventure and mischief.

Cash Lansky – Man Of The House

Independent hip-hop artist Cash Lansky delivers his debut with the introspective Man Of The House. The album navigates themes of resilience and manhood, reflecting his growth through powerful storytelling.

Amy Munoz & The Strange Vacation – Nashville, California

Amy Muñoz’s latest album blends gothic country and rock, capturing a distinctive sound through expansive guitar work. The quick production timeline highlights the directness of her personal storytelling.

Arthur Vint & Associates – Copper State

Arthur Vint’s Copper State merges country and jazz influences, recalling memories from his travels across Arizona. Completing this album brings together his artistic journey and deep connection to Tucson.