credit: Norrel Blair
Presented by SXSW DAY PARTY: Rainey Street Revival
Kiss Bang at Lustre Pearl
Kiss Bang is the ultimate modern pop duo.
Between the powerful, soulful voice of lead singer Kaya Stewart, and the aggressive yet ethereal playing and production from guitarist/producer Max Mercier, Kiss Bang brings an energy and rawness to the clean lines that have been drawn in pop music for the last 20 years. After meeting in passing at a bar in LA in early 2023, the duo began working together out of Max Mercier’s studio apartment before going to Nashville to record a collection of 9 timeless and catchy songs dealing with themes of romance, sex, uncertainty, tragedy, and substance use.
Two long time musicians from California, both Stewart and Mercier began playing and performing as young as 9 years old in their respective hometowns of Los Angeles (Stewart) and San Francisco (Mercier). Live, the duo promises a spectacle of electricity and emotion. Stewart’s powerhouse voice and emotional yet dominant stage presence, complimented by Mercier’s intricate guitar playing and high energy demeanor make for an unforgettable experience.
Kiss Bang’s first single, “Horrors Of Your Hometown,” released on March 1, 2024 and is followed by their debut EP, Horrors Of Your Hometown March 15
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