Unsigned Doesn't Mean Unimpressive

Every so often we get wind of an unsigned band that has us scratching our heads with a puzzled gaze. Formed in Abilene and now residing in Austin, Texas, The Rocketboys have a sound as expansive as the open road and lyrics deep as a Southwest sunrise.

Lofty melodies encircle broad indie folk rock compositions on The Rocketboys' debut album, 20,000 Ghosts. Working in the same vein as acts like Band of Horses, Arcade Fire and Explosions in the Sky, The Rocketboys mix history, a knack for finely tuned songwriting, and cinematic instrumentation. It's unbelievable that a band with this much depth and skill remains unsigned, but we think their days of obscurity are numbered. A listen to 20,000 Ghosts, or The Rocketboys previous two EPs, reveals a band that writes from the heart and plays from the gut. If passion is any indicator of success, then The Rocketboys are poised for a flourishing career.

MP3: The Rocketboys "We Are a Lighthouse"

The Rocketboys with WareHouse City and Dignan Thursday, October 15, at Marytrs', 3855 N Lincoln, 9 p.m., $7, 21+.