Driving Intensity Meets Melodic Vocals in Austin’s O Conqueror

I always worry about going to see a band for the first time. After taking the time to get all dolled up, make my way downtown and find parking, what if the show lacks energy and the music just isn’t my style?

For the hardcore local band fanatics, disappointment comes with the territory. They’ll discover some good shows; they’ll find some bad ones. It all balances out in the end.

O Conqueror is one local band that didn’t disappoint me. They recently opened for What Made Milwaukee Famous at The Parish, and you can look for them at Stubb’s and the Pecan Street Festival over the next few weeks.

For the first band of the night, O Conqueror had a solid crowd come out for them at The Parish. Set in predominantly minor keys, Dustin Doering’s melodic vocals were layered over intensely driving drums and guitar. And dare I say that – in his lower range – Doering sounded like Brandon Flowers (The Killers)?

Doering’s melodic vocals contrasted well with the band’s intense rhythm and driving sound

What’s definitely safe to say is that the four members of O Conqueror have got game. Their musical interludes were anything but filler. They didn’t make me think, “Get back to the words already.” These gentlemen had skill to showcase, and their fast-tempo, mournful interludes resonated with the audience.

Lead guitarist Justin Green is heavy on the FX, thanks to the band’s pedal sponsor Old School FX

The audience was able to catch the vibe because the chemistry starts within the band. Doering on guitar and vocals, lead guitarist Justin Green, bassist Tito Sopena and Jonathan Baugh on drums contribute to the whole. None of the members need to crowd their way into the spotlight because each one of them understands that O Conqueror is the sum of their individual sounds.

Look for O Conqueror’s album, King Me, in November. If you can’t wait until then, multiple appearances are scheduled on their calendar, including an August 31st show.

@QuasiBrit asks:

When was the last time you stepped out to see a new band and were glad you did?