Best Local Musicians In North Texas
Montrose
With a voice like silk, Montrose Cunningham's music mirrors R&B great Lenny Kravitz, but adds a layer of soul and intelligent, introspective lyrics. This is apparent in the gospel-influenced "Surrender." His slightly more upbeat "Never Be Mine" is a Kravitzesque song of unrequited love with jazzy undertones. Montrose writes and sings all of his songs and enlists the help of a few friends when performing live, which he does at least once a month in local Dallas venues.
The Reverend Horton Heat
It goes without saying that The Reverend Horton Heat has developed a huge cult following since it formed in 1985. With beginnings in Deep Ellum, The Reverend's driving bass lines and 50s-inspired melodies make concertgoers of all ages want to dance along. The group's three members put on an energetic show, engaging the audience and keeping the songs coming almost as fast as their respective tempos. Listen for "Psychobilly Freakout," a signature opener or encore song.
Camille Cortinas
Formerly of Fishing for Comets, Camille Cortinas is a solo singer-songwriter with a folk feel. Her delivery is similar to Jewel, but with some Texas soul infused in her song lyrics. The sugary-sweet acoustic sound is perfect for date night, girls' night or family night. Cortinas is also a voice actress, lending her pipes to TXU, Texas Lottery, Starbucks, Dixie Cups and a handful of other commercial jingles. Not only is she one of the best local musicians in Dallas, but she also supports her fellow local musicians.
LAZËR
Imagine if Mindless Self Indulgence and The Faint formed a band fronted by Sacha Baron Cohen's Brüno...and all of the members performed in Speedo swimsuits. You'd probably be at a LAZER concert. As far as belonging to a genre, LAZËR closely resembles "nerdcore" with some Euro-pop undertones. If you can get past their wardrobes, LAZER has an incredibly fun dance/rap sound. Don't take them too seriously; just enjoy bobbing to their electronic beats and bad German accents.
