Ghostland Observatory

Ghostland Observatory, formed in 2004 in Austin, Texas, consists of Aaron Kyle Behrens and Thomas Ross Turner. Behrens, born on January 11, 1982, in San Saba, TX, handles lead vocals and occasionally guitar, while Turner, born on August 7, 1979, in Pecos, TX, manages background vocals, drums, keyboard, and synthesizer. Their distinct sound, described as ‘electro-dance soul rock,’ quickly garnered attention, leading to their first full-length album, “delete.delete.i.eat.meat,” released in 2005 on Turner’s label, Trashy Moped Recordings. This initial release set the stage for their unique musical journey, blending electronic elements with rock and funk influences to create a high-energy performance style.

The duo’s career saw significant milestones in the mid-2000s, including their national television debut on NBC’s “Late Night with Conan O’Brien” in 2007, where they performed “Sad Sad City.” The same year, they appeared on “Austin City Limits” and released their first live DVD, “Live from Austin, TX.” Their album “Robotique Majestique” followed in 2008. Ghostland Observatory consistently performed at major music festivals such as the Austin City Limits Music Festival (2006, 2007, 2009), Coachella, and Voodoo Experience. Their live shows are known for sophisticated visual effects, including a notable performance at the Cedar Park Center in 2010 featuring 16 lasers and an intricate mirror setup to complement the music.

After releasing their fourth album, “Codename: Rondo,” in 2010, the duo announced a hiatus in 2013 to “rejuvenate their spirits,” returning for a single show in 2014 to open for Jurassic 5 at the Red Rocks Amphitheatre. They later performed several shows during South by Southwest (SXSW 2016). In 2021, Ghostland Observatory marked their return with their fifth album, “Vultures,” demonstrating their continued presence and evolution in the electronic music scene. Their discography also includes several EPs and live albums, all predominantly released through Trashy Moped.