Asheville – “Picture this: wild, spontaneous square dances ignited by fiddle fire, mosh-pit energy fueling classic punk anthems,” declares Kenny Feinstein, the charismatic frontman of Water Tower, as he envisions their upcoming performance in Asheville. This Los Angeles-based band is not just a musical act; they are a movement, a collision of genres that promises to shake the very foundations of bluegrass and punk rock. With their latest show at The One Stop on April 19, Water Tower is set to deliver a night of raw emotion and electrifying spontaneity that reflects their unique ethos.
From the Underground to the Spotlight
Water Tower’s journey has been anything but conventional. Formed in the heart of Los Angeles, the band has carved out a niche in the underground music scene, blending the heartfelt storytelling of bluegrass with the rebellious spirit of punk rock. “We’ve always been obsessed with bluegrass and punk rock—two genres that scream the same primal truth,” Feinstein explains, his passion palpable. “They’re forged from the same raw emotions: pain, sorrow, angst, and loss.”
The band’s evolution has been marked by collaborations with notable artists like Sierra Ferrell and Hillary Klug, which have further enriched their sound. “Working with traditional country and old-time legends has been electrifying,” Feinstein shares, recalling a jam session beneath the Hollywood sign that turned into a viral sensation. “It’s proof that you don’t choose between banjos and breakdowns. You crank them louder, together.”
Asheville holds a special place in Water Tower’s heart. “This show isn’t just a gig; it’s a love letter to the culture that raised us,” Feinstein reflects. The band’s connection to the city runs deep, tracing back to their early days when they busked on the streets and soaked up the local music scene. “We’re here to ignite the fire we’ve carried since those early days,” he asserts, ready to honor Asheville’s rich musical heritage.
Crafting a Night of Connection
The April 19 performance at The One Stop promises to be a celebration of community and creativity. “Expect a night of raw, unfiltered music and maybe a few surprise guests along the way,” Feinstein teases. Fans can look forward to a mix of beloved tracks and new material that showcases Water Tower’s evolving sound. “We’re tearing down the walls between banjos and breakdowns,” he emphasizes, inviting audiences to experience the exhilarating fusion of genres firsthand.
Feinstein’s commitment to authenticity extends beyond music; it’s woven into the very fabric of Water Tower’s identity. Known for their grassroots approach and DIY ethos, the band has cultivated a devoted following affectionately known as “the Owls.” “We love to meet the fans who come out to the shows,” he says, excitement bubbling in his voice. “We hope to meet a whole flock of new Owls at this show.”
The Asheville show is not just about performance; it’s about connection. “To the fans who grabbed those CDs in 2012: find us. Let’s swap stories,” Feinstein invites, bridging past and present as he prepares to share their journey with a new audience.
Embracing Challenges and Celebrating Triumphs
As Water Tower prepares for their Asheville debut, they are also gearing up for two iconic festivals: the Telluride Bluegrass Festival and Vans Warped Tour. These performances mark a significant milestone for the band, showcasing their ability to navigate diverse musical landscapes. “These festivals are the holy grail of both worlds,” Feinstein exclaims, highlighting the honor of performing on such esteemed stages. Despite facing challenges like lineup changes and genre-blending complexities, Water Tower has remained resilient, driven by their passion for music and community. “This isn’t just a show—it’s a manifesto,” Feinstein declares, capturing the rebellious spirit that defines their sound.
As they prepare for their performance in Asheville, Water Tower is poised to leave an indelible mark on the city’s vibrant music scene. With their electrifying energy and heartfelt storytelling, they invite audiences to join them on this journey—a celebration of roots, rebellion, and connection.