metalloid: Shoegaze in San Marcos

Desarey Elizondo Lopez 

Music Journalist 

Have you ever been to a local show and thought that it needs something different? Maybe need a new band to spice things up? The local scene can become oversaturated with the same genres and sounds, but it also has the ability to become the perfect environment for fostering some of the most unique and talented acts. It’s out of this scene where the upcoming shoegaze band metalloid began. Despite forming just over a year ago, they have already gained much traction and respect within the local community.  

metalloid is a project started by Mateo Torres, vocalist and lead guitarist of the band, who was then joined by Mason Moreno on rhythm guitar, Agusto Benavides on drums, and Mia Youngblood on bass. Even though the band is still early in their journey, they have already accomplished plenty, such as releasing an EP and going on tour. One thing that makes them stand out is the music they play, shoegaze. Although it’s a pretty popular genre, metalloid is one of – if not the only – band in the San Marcos scene to reinvent shoegaze as its own; it’s an underrated market that they have taken full advantage of. Mateo stated that he has taken influence from emo and slowcore as well, which can be heard in his newer music. 

metalloid’s new EP, titled, “when my shadow disappears”, has already become one of my favorite releases of the year. The blend of genres creates a distinct sound that’s honestly refreshing to hear. Whereas many artists tend to stick to one genre, metalloid pushes these boundaries, and I’d have to say my favorite off the EP is “moonstruck.” Their recent winter tour included cities such as San Marcos, Austin, San Antonio, Laredo, and Denton. Mateo says that the tour helped the band with making connections and expanding their audience reach. Mia added, “I think it was a really great chance for us to put ourselves out there and get to know the scenes outside of San Marcos.” 

In the past, I have seen the band perform and have witnessed their presence becoming more locally prominent. I recently saw them at George’s in the LBJ, and their sound has grown a lot since I first saw them almost a year ago. They’ve become more confident onstage and have grown into themselves and their identity as a band. They play a mixture of originals as well as covers, which I think is really fun and engages the crowd more. During their song, “smoke”, a few people even got up and started dancing, and everyone overall seemed to be having a blast. 

I asked each member what their favorite song to perform live is, and here’s what they had to say: 

• Mateo and Agusto said, “sad eyes” and “past being”: “They transition and sort of melt into each other,” Agusto said. 

• Mason and Mia said “smoke”: “It’s a good get up and dance song,” Mason said. 

As for any goals, Metalloid will continue to play more shows and write more music this upcoming year. Although still early into their journey, their music definitely stands out and serves as an intersection between slower, softer sounds and upbeat get-up-and-dance energy. A lot of the shows metalloid plays are DIY, meaning they – along with other local acts – have to rely on community support. Showing up and showing out makes a huge difference in the scene, so if you ever want to support a local artist or even just discover new music, metalloid is definitely one band you should watch out for.