Today we’d like to introduce you to Astragal.
Every artist has a unique story. Can you briefly walk us through yours?
We met through a variety of craigslist, SoundCloud, and a DIIV show. A couple of jam sessions, a trip to the mountains of North Carolina, and two broken down minivans have led to the greatest friendship any of us could ever ask for. Our name comes from a book called, “Astragal” written in 1965 by French author Albertine Sarrazin. Jimmy found the book two years prior to the band’s formation while strolling through Greenwich Village with his significant other, Laurelei. Life is funny that way.
Please tell us about your art.
Our art isn’t intentional in any way. Nor does it have a set message. We wish we knew why we have this desire to play music or how we come up with songs, but we don’t. Everything just comes from the ether in a sense. It’s irrational and necessary at the same time. All three of us have completely unique inspirations for the project, and we try to let those differences come to life instead of suppressing them in order to create familiarity between one another. Currently, we take inspiration from Vince Guaraldi, Yo La Tengo, Ulrika Spacek, Mourn, Froth, and Spirit of the Beehive. We are always taking inspiration from our friends in bands like Sad Cops, Goth Dad, and Small Chair.
Choosing a creative or artistic path comes with many financial challenges. Any advice for those struggling to focus on their artwork due to financial concerns?
Do what you can with the things you have. Never let fear get in the way of your ambition to create art. Don’t be afraid to ask for advice or help from those around you. Some of our favorite bands still play with the same gear they had when they first began. There’s no shame in using what you can afford! We have all had that half-working pedal or crusty amp at one point or another.
How or where can people see your work? How can people support your work?
You can see us live around Houston at fine establishments such as Satellite Bar, Rudyard, or at someone’s house. You can support us by buying our new 7 inches online at wallflowerrecords.org or simply stream our tunes on the world wide web as background music for your latest party. You can also find us on any given day at Jinya, Deep End Records, or Throughgood in the Heights.
Contact Info:
- Website: https://astragal.bandcamp.com/
- Email: astragalband@gmail.com
- Instagram: https://bit.ly/2wQHDE0
- Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/Astragalband/
- Twitter: https://bit.ly/2WQ8ZGv
- Other: https://open.spotify.com/artist/4uSP0G7AFSZRLjG6ip0WMn
Image Credit:
Promo Shot: Disha Khakheria
Live Shots: Jonathan Mazaltov
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