Biography
In 2001 the progressive instrumental rock outfit and performance collective Austin TV originated in Mexico City. Guitarists Chato and Isachar, bassist Pasa, and drummer Xna Yer convened that October and delivered their first public set several months later. Synth and sampler specialist Chio San soon completed the roster, a lineup that stayed intact until Ratón assumed bass responsibilities from Pasa in 2004. Choosing to forgo vocals and lyrics entirely, the musicians aimed to convey ideas and feelings through sound alone. They welcomed the prospect that audiences would form personal interpretations of each piece and therefore designed every concert to differ from the last, varying song sequences and structures at every opportunity. Their debut EP appeared in 2002. The untitled recording was succeeded the following year by the band’s first album, La Ultima Noche del Mundo. Austin TV became known for appearing in rabbit masks that echoed the artwork of that release. After issuing Asrael in 2004, the group maintained an active touring schedule yet produced no new studio material until 2007. The breakthrough album Fontana Bella placed Austin TV on Mexican radio playlists and secured appearances at major North American venues. Performing behind “Leaf Men” masks, they played the SXSW festival, New York’s LAMC, and the Personal Festival in Buenos Aires, Argentina.
Albums
Singles
