Band Of Heathens

The Band of Heathens began in 2005 in Austin, Texas, formed by Colin Brooks, Ed Jurdi, and Gordy Quist. Initially performing individual sets, the three singer-songwriters soon collaborated with bassist Seth Whitney during their “The Good Time Supper Club” series at Momo’s. A local paper’s misprint led to the moniker “The Heathens,” which the band adopted. Their initial recording, “Live from Momo’s,” garnered national attention and earned them “Best New Band” at the 2007 Austin Music Awards. Drummer John Chipman joined in 2007, and keyboardist Trevor Nealon, who contributed to studio recordings, joined the touring lineup in 2011. This early period was marked by organic growth and a focus on live performances, establishing their roots rock sound.

In May 2008, the band released their self-titled debut studio album, produced by Ray Wylie Hubbard. This album quickly reached number one on the Americana Music Association’s radio charts and was recognized as 8th on the Americana Charts’ Top 100 Albums for 2008. The Band of Heathens continued to gain recognition, taping an Austin City Limits show in July 2009, which aired during the program’s 35th anniversary. Their second studio release, “One Foot In The Ether” (2009), also achieved the number one spot on the Americana Radio Charts. The band received nominations for “New Emerging Artist” in 2009 and “Best Duo/Group of the Year” in 2010 from the Americana Music Honors & Awards, reflecting their increasing prominence.

Throughout their career, The Band of Heathens have prioritized independence, refusing corporate record labels and managing their own operations. Their 2011 album, “Top Hat Crown & the Clapmaster’s Son,” was the last studio project featuring founding member Colin Brooks, who departed to pursue other interests. The critically acclaimed “Sunday Morning Record” (2013) reached number two on the Americana Charts and was voted the number one album by “The Alternative Root,” which also recognized them as the top indie Americana band for their self-sufficient approach. The band continues to record and tour, releasing subsequent albums such as “Duende” (2016), “Stranger” (2020), and “Simple Things” (2023). In 2024, they collaborated with Hayes Carll for the album “Hayes & The Heathens,” which included joint performances, demonstrating their ongoing artistic evolution and collaborative spirit.