Skip to main content

Backyard Sessions

Eight local bands. One unique setting. Backyard Sessions is the first web exclusive series from Vegas PBS. Continuing our commitment to the arts in the southern Nevada community, Backyard Sessions showcases bands and singer/songwriters who are generating big buzz all over the valley.

Performances include Life is Beautiful acts American Cream, Sabriel, Jordan Mitchell, and HaleAmanO, indie rock from The Perks, The Solid Suns, Play for Keeps, and the Nashville sound of sisters Jill and Julia. It’s live, local music, in your own backyard, Backyard Sessions.

The Perks

The Perks are a 5 piece indie rock band out of Henderson. Feature Andy, Hunter, and Aaron Gorman, Ryley Isakson and Jake Magness. Their sound brings out the influences of Vampire Weekend, Two Door Cinema Club and Passion Pit.

American Cream

American Cream have been honing their rock style for over four years. Their hard work was rewarded by being selected to perform at the Life is Beautiful festival in both 2013 and 2014. They are analog sound in a digital world. A great combo of classic rock with a modern twist.

Sabriel

A two time Life is Beautiful performer, Sabriel (SHAW-BREE-EL) started out as a dance major at LVA before transitioning to a music career. At first listen you might be hooked by the soulful sound that has generated a lot of buzz in the desert. Often compared to Erykah Badu or Lauryn Hill, Sabriel seems to making her own niche in the world of music here in southern Nevada.

Jordan Mitchell

Jordan Mitchell is a little bit country, a little bit rock n roll, and a lot of fun for your ears. She has headlined several gigs on the strip as well as played at the 2013 Life is Beautiful festival. Not wanting to be limited to only one style or sound, Jordan Mitchell has a little Norah Jones, some Patsy Cline, and Bonnie Raitt.

Play for Keeps

Play for Keeps is a group that has a strong passion for music and fan base that is passionate about the music Cameron, Brian, and Joseph create. PFK has leveraged the power of social media to grow a strong fan base in Southern Nevada and beyond. Full of meaningful lyrics and a sound some describe as a unique balance of power, pop, and punk, Play for Keeps has a sound that fits well in any backyard.

HaleAmanO

HaleAmanO (HA.LEI.AH.MAH.NO) has had a strong presence in the Las Vegas valley since 2008. The “House of Sharks” fuses reggae and island rock to form songs that please any crowd. The band caught a big break when it was named the “Best Live Band of 2011” by the Las Vegas Weekly and often performs shows at Container Park and Brooklyn Bowl. HaleAmanO is just one of those bands that fit perfectly in any backyard setting.

The Solid Suns

The Solid Suns are more than just a rock band. By infusing blues, funk, and alternative styles they make a well-rounded sound that reminds the listener of Jack White or The Black Keys. Winners of the 2012 Hard Rock Rising band showcase, The Solid Suns are carving a niche as one of the hardest working bands in Southern Nevada. They are another Vegas band showcasing the diversity of music in the valley.

Extras

Icon: Music Through the Lens

Using Vaseline As a Filter

1:56
Published:
Rating: NR

Photographer Gered Mankowitz came up with a new way to add a filter to his photos.

Sound Field

Is Indie a Music Genre?

11:14
Published:

So what makes indie music indie?

Country Music

Johnny Cash: His Legacy

5:19
Published:
Rating: TV-PG

Friends and family discuss Johnny Cash's return to simple songwriting and record-making.