The Band of Heathens

For the past two decades, Austin’s The Band of Heathens have been ahead of the curve. Whether that’s through incisive lyrics or a sound they crafted that’s become mainstream, the group of troubadours has been steadfast in their truth. On the band’s upcoming album, titled Country Sides, The Band of Heathens takes a look back at their career with gratitude and great satisfaction. Formed in 2005, the Heathens broke into the public consciousness in 2009 with their heartfelt blend of country and rock, including memorable performances at Austin City Limits on PBS and the Austin City Limits Festival. Since then, members have come and gone, but principal songwriters Ed Jurdi and Gordy Quist give the band its collective focus and provide the DNA to the songs beloved by folks around the globe. What has separated the band from their Americana and country rock peers is that they’ve done this all themselves. The group has kept its DIY ethos, building its audience, sound, and success brick by brick. It hasn’t always been easy, but it’s allowed the band to maintain its freedom and artistic integrity. This DIY attitude has informed everything the band has done and is reflected in Country Sides. “We're in a really great space creatively after all these years,” Jurdi says. “The songs we write and perform are a reflection of both our inner and outer world and the stories that reside in the spaces between." By the time it came to record Country Sides, Jurdi and Quist took a deep look inside. Pri