Live from the Underground returns September 14 at Wayside Food Park with a new and eclectic lineup. Earlier this year, the concept of this collaborative music performance was brought to life by JC Faa, also known as JC Juice, who arranged Shiner Park’s first live music event to feature exclusively student performers. The first event was such a smashing success, JC Juice decided to do it again!
Live from the Underground’s lineup features five local Bryan-College Station musicians—JC Juice, James, Jay Wile, Wartime Afternoon, and Michael Witt. JC Juice shared with Maroon Weekly his motivation behind his music and his excitement for the sophomore term of Live from the Underground.
JC Juice is a recent mechanical engineering graduate from Texas A&M, but music remains at the forefront of his passion. JC explains, “Music is super tough and disheartening at times, but when it’s good, it moves my soul like nothing else in the world. Music makes me want to immerse myself fully into it, and powers me through the dark times.” JC Juice seamlessly fuses together influences from jazz, funk, and soul to create his self-described style of alternative rap. Hoping to make Live from the Underground a recurring semester event, JC’s dedication is evident, and he claims “it takes a lot a self-discipline and coffee” to stay motivated and focused on his music.
Opening for JC Juice will be newcomer to the BCS music scene, James. Keep an ear and eye out for James’ unique hip-hop style at Live from the Underground.
Jay Wile has been perfecting his smooth R&B/soul sound for a few years. Jay Wile takes inspiration from artists like Frank Ocean. Talented would be an understatement for this one with his soulful voice.
A BCS music scene staple is the indie-rock band Wartime Afternoon. Full of vivacious stage presence, Wartime Afternoon brings the sunshine to the genre of rock. The band is comprised of Joe Slagel, Alex Garcia, Cooper Powell, and Nahiyan Khandker. The band has two full albums out and hopefully more to come!
Michael Echterling, also known as Michael Witt, is balancing school, work and his music. Michael Witt has made his mark in several BCS music venues. He is excited to participate this year, especially since his style varies so much from the others in the lineup. He describes his music style as “A unique blend of acoustic singer-songwriter intimacy and electric indie rock energy.” His first album will be out later this year.
Live from the Underground will surely provide music for everyone’s taste. The event is free at Wayside Food Park on September 14. Don’t miss out on the prizes, food trucks, and free beer samples from Houston’s Spindletap Brewery that will accompany this amazing musical lineup.
