Dan Jones Is Taking British Country Rock to the Next Stage
There’s a certain fire that separates guitar-slinging dreamers from artists who actually make an impact. Dan Jones, a UK-based guitarist, vocalist, and songwriter, is one of those rare few.
Suggested:
Emerging from the vibrant musical landscape of Memphis, Tennessee, Dream of Gardens is more than just a band—it's a revolution in the indie pop scene. Founded by high school juniors Ethan Assad, Ava Tignor, and their friends, this dynamic group has rapidly carved a niche with its unique sound and heartfelt performances.
As Dream of Gardens continues to evolve and captivate audiences, we explore their journey, inspirations, and the artistic path leading to their recent successes.
A Nostalgic Sound with a Modern Twist
Originally a bedroom project in Memphis (not Germantown as previously mentioned), Ethan crafted melodies while Ava penned lyrics that capture the essence of youthful nostalgia with a modern twist. Their debut single "Clear," a blend of homespun lyrics and multi-instrumental mastery, marked their arrival on the music scene. This was followed by "Angel," featuring emotional vocals and heavier keys, showcasing their growth from a purely indie sound to a richer, layered musical experience. The band’s decision to use a baby photo of Ava as the album cover for their latest song visually encapsulates their approach: deeply personal yet universally relatable.
Artistic Influences and Songwriting Process
Influenced by bands like Lunar Vacation and Flipturn, and the ethereal sounds of the Cocteau Twins, Dream of Gardens strives to resonate with a dreamy quality while exploring new musical territories. The songwriting process is a collaborative effort starting with Ethan's compositions on GarageBand, enriched by Ava’s lyrics drawn from personal memories and emotions. This partnership not only deepens their musical narrative but ensures that each song reflects their joint artistic vision.
Live Performances and Community Connection
Dream of Gardens’ live performances showcase their deep connection with audiences. From intimate house shows to larger venue gigs at places like Growlers and Society Memphis, the band creates an immersive experience where fans are integral to the musical journey. At these performances, the band features Ethan Assad and Ava Tignor at the forefront, with crucial support from Alex Smith, Will Ellis, and Drew Coffey, whose talents enrich the live sound.
Conclusion
Looking to the future, Dream of Gardens is committed to evolving their sound while staying true to their indie roots, promising more innovative music for their fans. With a supportive community behind them and a clear vision for their artistic journey, Ethan, Ava, and their bandmates, including new members from Memphis, are poised to become a beacon of creativity and passion in the indie music scene. For those captivated by the blend of nostalgic melodies and modern sensibilities, Dream of Gardens offers a fresh and exciting musical experience.
Valerie is the writer of Wavy Music Magazine, a premier destination for music industry professionals. Through her interviews, reviews, and expert insights, she keeps readers up-to-date on the latest trends and developments in the world of music.
There’s a certain fire that separates guitar-slinging dreamers from artists who actually make an impact. Dan Jones, a UK-based guitarist, vocalist, and songwriter, is one of those rare few.
When four high school friends from Wollongong attended a music camp in 2022, they didn’t realize they were setting the foundation for one of the region's most exciting indie- psych outfits. That’s how Cytosis was born—Hector (vocals/guitar), Miles (bass/keys), Brinley (guitar), and Jayden (drums/backing vocals) transformed shared curiosity into serious sonic intent.
Some bands follow trends. Others, like Pimenta Caseira, build time machines. The Lisbon- based trio — Fred (a.k.a. Bera), Gui Salgueiro, and their occasional sax-sorcerer Zé Maria — are not just making music; they’re sculpting a new type of funk that’s as analog as it is intergalactic.