Photo by Bryan Parker
Before moving to Austin, Emily Beanblossom was active in the Olympia, Washington scene, fronting the frantic punk outfit Christmas. She also has ties to K Records, Olympia’s proudly DIY label that helped spearhead the riot grrl movement, launched Beck’s career, and moved Kurt Cobain enough to get a tattoo of the label’s iconic logo.
This punk ethos serves Beanblossom well in Ruby Fray, her latest band. “Honor,” the four piece’s new single out this summer, broods with a sneer, but Beanblossom’s use of the omnichord gives the song some celestial lift. There’s something strangely beautiful about Ruby Fray’s sound, like the Cocteau Twins dressed in darker clothes.
Ruby Fray kicks off its tour tonight at Cheer Up Charlie’s with the Sour Notes.
–Art Levy // host, Sunday 10 a.m. – 2 p.m., producer, My KUTX