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McAllister’s piano-driven alternative pop/rock sounds similar to Keane and The 1975, but wrapped in subtly dynamic atmospheric layers. The lyrics are joyfully dark and thought-provoking and open a window for listeners into a word of anxiety, depression and failed relationships. After struggling with their sound for several years, McAllister found a home in writing about the real life issues they were struggling with, which has created for them a niche opportunity to resonate with audience members on a very personal level. Ana Xavier from Sofar Sounds describes the music as “very intense, emotional, & personal.” If you listen carefully you can hear the struggle continuing to build until eventually finding an acceptance that leaves the listener with a glimmer of hope. 

McAllister is a Dallas based band formed by Ty McAllister (vocals/guitar/keys) in 2015. He has since added members Kelsey Barker (vocals/keys), Seth McClure (guitar), Jordan Green (bass), and Steven Baker (drums). In 2016, the band released their first full-length record, Oxygen, which they self-produced and mixed. After taking time to redefine their sound, the band went into the studio and released two singles. “Better Off” was the first single and was featured on Spotify’s Discover Weekly playlist and has over 3500 streams. The newly released second single, “Born to Be Like This,” is on track for 2000 Spotify streams during its first month. They are continuously writing and in the studio and have plans to release new music in 2018. 

The band has become known for their dynamic and personal live performances. They often headline in their hometown of Dallas, but they’ve also played with artists such as David Cook, Bowling for Soup, The Unlikely Candidates, Honest Men, Brother Moses, and Northern National. They’ve played festivals like Deep Ellum Arts Festival and the main stage at Big Folkin Festival. In 2016 they played Hand Drawn Record’s unofficial South by Southwest showcase. The band is finishing out 2017 strong with a run of dates to Missouri and Oklahoma and will be touring regionally in 2018.