IWD: Women Of The San Marcos Music Scene

Having recently moved from Austin to San Marcos, I was excited for a change in the music scene. Texas State University loves to rave about the diversity of both the school and town and – while I can say that’s definitely apparent throughout San Marcos and on campus –- it tends to lack when it comes to the bands. A majority of the San Marcos music scene includes passionate and talented performers ,but I can’t help but notice a lack of women present. Without this representation the music can sometimes become repetitive and a bit disappointing. That being said, there are a few bands that have broken this pattern and included girl members; San Marcos-based bands such as Crash Test Girls, Window Shop and Maddie and The Deadnames have all been active in doing their part to shake up our local scene.

Crash Test Girls

Crash Test Girls is a shoegaze/noise psych band including members Allison (lead vocals/bass), Cal (drums), Sammy (guitar) and Ayden (guitar). Crash Test Girls has recently joined the San Marcos scene with their first ever performance at Earle’s Basement on January 20th. The band did not disappoint as people piled into the living room to hear some rocking originals, a cover of “Heaven or Las Vegas” by Cocteau Twins sung by Allison and a cover of “Head In The Ceiling Fan” by Title Fight sung by Sammy – which I greatly appreciated as I love both of those bands. Since then they’ve been quite active; with a show at the Electric Church in Austin on February 23rd, Earle’s Basement on February 24th and another at the San Marcos Secret Room on March 4th . The lead singer Allison, has a heavenly voice that is sure to attract the attention of any crowd and the quartet has great energy  throughout the length of their sets (especially for being so new to the game)! Catch Crash Test Girls at The Porch on March 9th as they perform for KTSW 89.9’s International Women’s Day celebration, “Estrojam!”

Window Shop

Window Shop is an eclectic, funk-rock band that includes members Leonora (lead vocals/keyboard), Aiden (guitarist), Dallas (guitarist), Stephen (bassist) and Kevin (drums). The name ‘Window Shop’ has become more familiar around San Marcos over the past year. My first time seeing them was at the LBJ Student Center on Texas State campus while in between my classes. As I sat on the notorious grass steps, I was blown away by this group’s contagious, upbeat energy. My friends and I loved their sound – specifically Lenora’s vocals – as she adds a jazzy feel to the instrumentals. I was pleased to be able to see the band again at The Porch during one of KTSW 89.9’s Third Thursday events and am anxiously anticipating my next encounter with them soon!

Maddie And The Deadnames

Maddie and The Deadnames are a San Marcos punk band who prioritize being pro-women and pro-LGBTQ+. The band has been around since 2021 and has played various local festivals, including a variety of punk shows and pride fests. Lead singer and guitarist, Maddie, was previously in a band called “Dead Traffic” and also performed solo shows before Maddie and The Deadnames came to be. While I have yet to see Maddie and The Deadnames perform, I am excited for when the opportunity comes. From what I’ve seen and heard, they rock!

All of this to say, there are very few bands that include women; and no all girl bands whatsoever. If you know of any women musicians that want to start a band or even a solo project, empower her to do so! As a community we need representation of all people including women. From Taylor Swift’s sad breakup songs to metal band Kittie’s rage, music is a way for us women to express ourselves and connect with one another. As Kathleen Hanna once said – “Girls to the front”!

On Thursday March 9th, KTSW 89.9 will be hosting two bands, Elegy and Crash Test Girls to perform at the International Women’s Day event, “Estrojam”. Come to The Porch from 10pm – 12:30am to hang out with your fellow ladies and celebrate being a woman!

Featured Image by Ben Middleton, Eric Wendt and Mayah Rastok.