Interview: West 22nd Avenue is the Focus
Atwood Magazine had the opportunity to sit down with the Austin-based band West 22nd before their highly anticipated Chicago concert. The band members discussed their debut album, musical influences, and shared light-hearted moments playing dominoes and rock-paper-scissors in the green room.
The atmosphere outside the closed door was buzzing with excitement rather than nervousness as West 22nd gathered around the coffee table after completing their sound check. Lead guitarist Jeremy Ancheta reflected on the thrill of hearing audiences sing along to their lyrics in cities like Charlotte, New York, Boston, and DC, realizing the impact of their music nationwide.
West 22nd’s journey from playing college gigs to larger venues in Austin, Texas, such as The Ballroom and the Austin City Limits festival, marked a significant turning point for the band. Vocalist Logan Madsen and bassist Jet Beck shared their excitement about embarking on the Nowhere To Be Tour and how the experience has been a realization of their dreams.
The band members found themselves playing to sold-out crowds in Chicago, Boston, New York, and Washington, DC, cities where they had never performed before. This overwhelming response affirmed their potential for success and the growing popularity of their music beyond their local Texas and West Coast fan base.
The camaraderie among the band members not only shines backstage but also translates into their electrifying onstage performances. Each city they visit on the tour brings a unique energy, with fans eagerly anticipating their spirited renditions of songs like “Savannah” and playful interactions reminiscent of the iconic Ferris Bueller attendance scene during their Chicago show.
Ancheta and Madsen’s musical partnership began at the University of Texas at Austin, where they bonded over shared musical tastes. Recruiting rhythm guitarist Gabe Acevedo and later bassist Jet Beck through unconventional means, including campus flyers and impromptu performances, solidified the band’s lineup.
Drummer Tyler Kerch’s journey to joining West 22nd added another layer to the band’s story, from his initial encounter with Acevedo to mastering the drums to earn his spot in the group. The band’s eclectic mix of influences, ranging from Vampire Weekend’s ska beats to Radiohead’s lyrical depth, showcases their diverse musical palette and the collective love for creating music.
West 22nd’s journey is a testament to friendship, passion, and musical exploration. As they continue to captivate audiences across the country, the band remains grounded in their shared love for music and the joy of creating together.