There’s quite a bit of history beneath the very name Otis Wilkins, when you think about it. The surname comes from songwriter/vocalist Taylor Wilkins, of course. The name Otis belongs to one of the sweetest pups around, Otis the dog – Taylor’s dog, that is. And Sir Otis the snuggle bug gets his own name from a nickname Wilkins’ father had a long time ago, if your AMM host has her facts correct.
Longtime fans/San Marcos friends have immediate bragging rights and can claim being around back in the days of The Couch, Wilkins’ first band, which eventually evolved into the fierce, badass band that is now Otis the Destroyer. Bringing things back full circle, you get the best of both worlds with Wilkins’ bands; Destroyer brings the rock ‘n’ roll to deafening levels with major guitar shreds, while Otis Wilkins treads on slightly softer territory with the sweetest of croons. And it’s all good.
Get your own copy of Otis Wilkins’ new EP, Strangest Place, at the release party tonight at Stubb’s, 801 Red River, on the inside stage. And ’tis a well-rounded show featuring the beautiful music of Little Mazarn, and solid badass rawk by Blood Pumps. Doors open at 9 p.m. Get there early to see all three. Very recommended.
-Photography by Kate Blaising.