Your humble Austin Music Minute maven has been a fan of Learning Secrets since its Austin parties in 2004 at the Whiskey Bar, when co-founders Ian Orth and Jeramy Neugent had a weekly slot that quickly gained a following through word of mouth. Learning Secrets soon evolved into more than just a DJ duo; they became a promotional group influenced by a wide variety of music, and a widely-attended happening that brought in renown DJs from around the world to spin. Once Orth and Neugent took command of the turntables, there was no stopping them. And this was only the beginning.
Orth had begun working on his own music as a side project that he and Neugent would mix into their sets at various parties. When it caught the attention of a radio station and label in New York, Orth figured the next logical step would be to make it bigger, so he turned the side project into a band, Orthy. They’ve just dropped their new EP, E.M.I.L.Y., a collection of mad electro-pop grooves (not to mention an unabashedly loving tribute to Orth’s significant other, Emily Larson) immersed in lush techno, ’60s and new wave elements.
Without a doubt, this is a band to keep your ears out for because, naturally, these guys know a thing or two about getting your butt on the dance floor. Get yourself out to the Orthy EP release party tonight at Holy Mountain, 617 E. 7th St. The bill features sets by two other great local bands, Letting Up Despite Great Faults and Technicolor Hearts. Doors open at 9 p.m.
As if that weren’t enough to get you moving, Learning Secrets happens to be celebrating their 10th anniversary with huge (and I do mean huge) party tomorrow night at Red 7, 611 E. 7th St., featuring special guest and longtime Learning Secrets favorite from Spain, Delorean.
Cheers to Learning Secrets and Orthy. Plenty more to come from all this talent. Recommended.