Black Pumas are one of the most important emerging bands coming from Austin, TX. After releasing their first single in April 2018 the band led by Adrian Quesada and Eric Burton spread via word of mouth among music fans. Their first single, "Black Moon Rising" was posted to YouTube and took them from being a local act to getting signed to a record label and recently named a 2020 Grammy nominee for "Best New Artist."

For fans who have followed Adrian Quesada's work as a producer and former member of Grupo Fantasma, they likely aren't surprised that Black Pumas debut sounds anything like a first attempt at putting together an album. Released in June, Quesada and Burton form the perfect team of a multi-instrumental producer and vocalist. Before Black Pumas, Burton was busking on the streets of Austin where he impressed a network of musicians that led him to meeting Quesada. His vocals bring each song to life which you hear on their second single, "Fire," and deeper album tracks like "Know You Better."

There's never a shortage of bands harnessing a retro soul vibe but what Black Pumas have that makes them stand out against the rest is their live show. They made their Twin Cities debut back in August 2018 shortly before the major buzz started to build for them outside of Texas. It was a show that captivated those who had a heads up about the band and the line at the merch table after the show might have been an indicator that they would be back. If you missed the show, catch 'em at our 15th Anniversary Show on January 18, or watch them performing in The Current studios. Their new self-titled album is out now on ATO Records.

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• Black Pumas perform in The Current studio