Local Artist Review: Ooey Gooeys

By Clayton Chaney
Music Journalist

The Ooey Gooeys blend genres such as indie folk and indie rock, and show flashes of jazz and summertime surf rock. Their use of a saxophone, keyboard, and a classic upright bass showcase more jazz and soul influenced music while still being able to rock out with progressive and sharp electric guitar chords. Groovy bass lines and skillfully crafted lyrics provide more than enough energy to keep crowds intrigued throughout the whole show. The band will definitely take you on an extraordinary journey through multiple dimensions with their setlist.

They will get you swaying and swimming through your mind with jams like “Sorry Sun” that will leave you with a surreal nostalgic-like reminder of the young and adventurous child in all of us. Then be ready to explode to “Atomic Bomb,” which is a high energy piece consisting of fast paced lyrics and quick rhymes that express the pressures of being a conscious human being . Upbeat drums and silky smooth keys also give this song a psych rock feel that is sure to ignite some serious headbanging. The band’s diverse sound is also highlighted with their indie folk song, “Honest Man.” The funky bass and twangy guitar bring out a more country folk sound, along with a jazz-soul style saxophone. The Ooey Gooeys express authentic and passionate music with a wide range of sounds that are naturally pleasing to the ear.

The band was formed in the spring of 2017 by a group of students in the sound recording technology program here at Texas State University. They are lead by the multi-talented artist Zach Blue, who is responsible for the distinct guitar chords and mindful, poetic lyrics. Laying down the nifty bass lines and providing a solid structure for the bands atmosphere is Tristan Albers. On the keys is Dayne Reliford, with professional class talent that adds a unique element to the band’s sound. Giving the band those deep jazz-soul sounds on saxophone, with incredible skill, is Thomas Webb. They are held together by Dane Butler, by tearing up the drums with gracefully overwhelming passion.

The Ooey Gooeys’ highly anticipated, first official EP is expected to be released early spring 2018, and will hopefully include singles like “Atomic Bomb” and “Sorry Sun”. You can catch the Ooey Gooeys playing a handful of shows around San Marcos this spring at venues such as KIVA, Aquabrew, and at the San Martian Music and Arts Festival in April. This year is looking like it’s going to be a big one for the band with lots of great music and good times coming up, so be sure to keep them on your radar for some high quality local music!