Certain Seas
North Carolina’s Certain Seas is the indie folk-rock project of former Squirrel Nut Zippers cofounder and vocalist Katharine Whalen, guitarist Austin Riopel, and trombonist Danny Grewen. Known for shimmering harmonies and melodic guitars, they released the album Ordinary Hopes in 2025 to much acclaim and are recognized as one of NC’s most eclectic and highly regarded acts.
Erie Choir
Erie Choir is the North Carolina-based indie rock band of Eric Roehrig (formerly of Sorry About Dresden). Originally a solo acoustic project, it has evolved into a five-piece band blending hook-laden folk-pop with classic rock influences.
Neon Ruins
Chapel Hill’s Neon Ruins melds indie folk, roots rock, and psychedelic guitars into an esoteric, post-American soundtrack. Inspired by a visit to the birthplace of H. P. Lovecraft, long time musical collaborators R. M. Mclaughlin (Travel Horse, Magnolia Collective) and D. T. Snyder (Magnolia Collective, Gambling the Muse) were inspired to write and record a batch of songs that will appear on their upcoming debut album Gas Station Carnivals.
