Their sophomore album marks a move toward a more sweeping, conceptual vision, utilizing intros, interludes and a variety of musical styles including a turn toward harder rock. Imagine something along the lines of a modern and alternative rock opera.

Part way through their set, he managed to get the entire crowd—and I mean entire crowd—to scream as loud as they could. And then he’d cut them off. He’d cue them in again with a scream and cut it off. That is peak crowd involvement. I’ve never seen anyone be able to pull something like that off at Velour.

Finn has become a premier frontman in the scene. He is a star whether he wants to be or not. It came down to the crowd vote, and No Such Animal came away with the win and are moving onto the finals Saturday.

Paradoxically grandiose and indulgent while being vulnerable and intimate.

No Such Animal has kept track of the musical treasures they’ve collected from the past as they move like a wrecking ball into the future.

These young rockers play sounds that seem way beyond their age.

It’s all about connection.

If I were talking to someone new in the area, though, this is a list of musicians I'd tell you about to get started. But don't be shy about adding to this list by asking friends and colleagues who they listen to locally, and where they catch them performing. In no particular order, here are some amazing musicians to check out in the area.

Alt-rock outfit No Such Animal has been putting out some incredible hits since 2022. They've amassed an incredible following in such a short amount of time, but hearing their songs like "Witches in Salt Lake City" and "Painted Faces," it's hard not to become an instant fan.

I consider the following bands must-see live performances for 2023. They fall under the category of “See It to Believe It.” Their recorded music is great, but their live shows are religious experiences.

What a week! See who was crowned the latest Battle of the Bands winner

Felt less like a battle of the bands and more like a killer show.

This album is Counting Crows, Motion City Soundtrack, and Matchbox Twenty meets the Mighty Mighty Bosstones without the horns?