Today we’d like to introduce you to Avon Brook
Hi Avon, so excited to have you on the platform. So before we get into questions about your work-life, maybe you can bring our readers up to speed on your story and how you got to where you are today?
Emerging from the heart of Houston’s underground scene, Avon Brook is a band that blends alternative rock, shoegaze, Midwest emo, punk, and grungegaze into a sound that is as raw as it is captivating. The band was formed in early 2024 following the dissolution of our previous project, Vexation. With a new vision and a fresh lineup.
Our first release, ‘Torn Reflections’, quickly gained attention, setting the stage for a little rise in Houston’s DIY circuit. Our debut album release show at the Avon Brook House—featuring our buds over at Mohegan, Mutt, Day Trippin, and Life 9—was a defining moment, showcasing our ability to bring people together through both music and community (and, of course, free tacos).
Now, with a debut album in hand and an ever-growing fanbase, Avon Brook is on the verge of something bigger. Our sound has been getting more dynamic, our energy is more relentless, and our story is just beginning. As we continue to push boundaries and make our mark, one thing is certain: Avon Brook is gonna be here for a while!
Can you talk to us a bit about the challenges and lessons you’ve learned along the way. Looking back would you say it’s been easy or smooth in retrospect?
For David Reyna and Julián Cavazos, one of the biggest challenges in Avon Brook’s early days was balancing school and music. With both being high school students, finding time to write, rehearse, record, and perform while keeping up with assignments and exams was exhausting. The stress of managing both worlds made it incredibly difficult to get through the school year, but they refused to let their education or their music suffer.
Another unexpected hurdle was their unconventional start in live music. Before breaking into Houston’s alternative scene, Avon Brook’s first gigs weren’t in classic music venues but at a Mexican restaurant, Tacos El Vaquero Arre Lulú. They found themselves opening for Mexican comedians like El Huasteco Potosino, playing to crowds who weren’t necessarily there for live music—let alone alternative rock. While it was far from the ideal setting, these early performances helped them build confidence and stage presence, even if the audience wasn’t always on their side.
Despite these struggles, Avon Brook never backed down. They kept pushing forward, eventually earning their place in Houston’s underground music scene. Their journey is a testament to their dedication—proving that no matter the obstacles, passion and perseverance will always find a way through. – Naco Records
Thanks – so what else should our readers know about your work and what you’re currently focused on?
We try to specialize in blending elements of alternative rock, shoegaze, Midwest emo, punk, and grungegaze to create a raw yet emotionally charged sound. Our music has been characterized by melancholic melodies, distorted guitar textures, introspective lyricism, and dynamic shifts in energy—from hazy, atmospheric moments to explosive, high-intensity bursts.
“Beyond our music, Avon Brook also specializes in our own production and self-recording. Over at my home studio, we take some time to really get our releases to sound as good as possible!” – David Reyna
“Their ability to capture emotion and authenticity in both their recordings and live performances sets them apart in Houston’s alternative scene.” – Vans Employee
Any advice for finding a mentor or networking in general?
Musical Mentors & Influences
Avon Brook’s sound is deeply inspired by Title Fight, The Jins, and other alternative rock, shoegaze, Midwest emo, and punk acts. Title Fight, in particular, is a major influence—both in their ability to blend dreamy, atmospheric textures with raw energy and in their DIY ethos. The Jins also played a significant role, not just musically but personally, as they connected with each-other in October 2024, forming a friendship.
These bands serve as mentors in an indirect way—through their music, lyrics, and the paths they’ve taken in their careers. The ability to balance melodic shoegaze elements with heavier punk, grunge, alternative and emo undertones is something Avon Brook has clearly drawn from these influences.
Personal Mentors
Beyond musical influences, Avon Brook’s journey has also been shaped by key figures in our local scene.
“My father, is a well-known DJ in Houston and has played a role in Avon Brook’s connections within the local music industry. It’s likely that the experiences we’ve been given have helped shape my work ethic and networking skills.” – David Reyna
The DIY Mentality as a Mentor
A huge part of our identity comes from the DIY mindset, which has been a mentor in itself. Hosting shows at the Avon Brook House, building a scene around our music, and handling things independently mirrors the ethos of many punk and shoegaze bands that came before us. This “figure-it-out-yourself” approach is often a bigger teacher than any single person.
Contact Info:
- Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/avonbrook.tx/
- Youtube: https://www.youtube.com/@avonbrook/videos
- Other: https://linktr.ee/avonbrookband?fbclid=PAZXh0bgNhZW0CMTEAAaYkRhD45scn0UE78SPEz5GQFsBgfkFTZAKAHQiMu1GGF0PJ5uLLPR8nIrs_aem_G7TYu1EmETJGoqSattCmbQ
Image Credits
Diego Trevino
Josh Rubio
Isaac Moreno
Emilio Castaneda
