Karate, Guns & Tanning kicks off the festival on opening night of Hell’s Half Mile, and we’re certain they’ll set the tone for the rest of the fest. This female-fronted 3-piece band from Indianapolis delivers a swirl of genres that come together in the best way.  They’re psychedelic-tinged post-punk mixed with shoegaze & dream-pop, and honestly that doesn’t even say enough. Taking their name from a strip mall sign in Indiana, Valerie Green (bass, synth, & lead vocals), Joy Caroline Mills (guitar), and Daniel Guajardo (drums) create music fit for a dance floor, sci-fi movie, or the opening night after party to a 17th annual film & music festival.

This incredible female-fronted indie rock trio from Portland, Maine brings raucous energy, chunky big distorted riffs, and cutting vocals reflecting on lost friendships and self-worth swallowed up by burnout. They have an overall sound that is uniquely their own with a hint of a 90’s alt-rock throwback vibe. Songwriter, guitarist, and vocalist Sonia Sturino is supported by Annie Hoffman (bass/vocals) and Adam Hand (drums), filling out a mature and emotive sound. They are the real deal, and we’re certain you’ll be hooked.

LVRS is a queer fronted band from Lansing, Michigan filled with unbridled creativity and a polished indie-rock sound that is atmospherically mixed with real rock bangers. On the song “Safe Word” from their 2023 EP songwriter Olivia Dejonghe sings “ Tell me your kink, mine is being alone. Because I’ve been hurt by the ones I’ve loved. Treat me good and I’ll choke you the way you like. Hold my heart and don’t let go, but don’t squeeze too hard”. Olivia’s voice is either effortlessly soothing or loaded with attitude all depending on the moment, and the music follows along with the right amount of hook. It’s easy to adore this band, and fall in love with their music.

Kelly Jean Caldwell Band can be described many ways – jangly 60’s alt-country, freak folk, and garage americana…and all of them can be right, yet the best thing to say is you must hear this band. Their songs are beautiful, haunting, spooky, & sweet with a twang that pulls it all together. Kelly Jean’s lyrics can sometimes be dark & humorous such as the song “Fucked Up” from the 2016 album Downriver where she sings “Do you think it is fucked up I counted every leaf on the tree in front of your house the night I burned it down”. With a powerful voice and boundless creative energy, Kelly Jean Caldwell continues to be Detroit rock royalty in our eyes as we watch her play in numerous bands & run the best live music venue in Hamtramck. We’re truly honored to have her band in Bay City for Hell’s Half Mile!