Pan Astral [4] originally came together in January 2011 to co-headline a show with Los Angeles based post-punk duo El Ten Eleven [5]. Pan Astral has continued to create new music while allowing its old music to evolve into new, expansive musical territory. The group describes its music as “melody-rich, that combines hints of indie, new wave and dream-pop with red-blooded indie rock, topped by emotive, soaring vocals.”
The band, originally formed by long-time collaborators Gabriel Otto and Ryan Burnett, ascended from the already elevated altitude of Denver, Colorado. Eventually they expanded the line-up, adding three new members: Kyle Zender on bass and keyboards, Tad Lusk on guitar and Michael Smith on drums.
In their four years together they have created a modest but loyal following with their first two albums “Mary Can Dream” and “Goodbye True Love.” They followed those up this year with a new EP called “Cold Field,” which many consider the finest work the band has ever done. And while the group continues to push, grow and evolve with each passing album, there are certain aspects of the music that remain like calling cards, such as melodies, breakbeats and lush soundscapes.
Pan Astral has performed in venues and festivals all over the country, sharing the stage with Flobots, Walk The Moon, Pacific Air, American Royalty, Jamestown Revival, Sorne, Motive and Lotus side-project Nunchuck. The band has also collaborated both live and in the studio with members of Lotus, Signal Path and Ravi Shankar disciple Paul Livingstone.
Pan Astral is performing June 23 at Zanzabar. The show begins at 9 p.m., and admission is $8. The Bourbon Gingers [6] will also be on the bill.
Photo courtesy of Pan Astral