Aqua Velva—A duo band formed by brothers, Jason (lead vocalist/guitarist) and Juno (drummer/bassist), with a discography that kicks with the power of a quintet. Anyone who has had the opportunity to see them perform live, or simply listen online, will be shocked at their fairly recent beginnings.

While Juno was in school bands focusing on jazz and playing bass, throughout junior-high there wasn’t a genre that Jason necessarily felt drawn to. Everything changed in 2020 when, amidst COVID and online classes, both brothers decided to pick up guitar. Being from a family with seemingly no musicians, this passion was completely self-guided.

“Once COVID actually hit, I spent a lot of my time during classes just practicing and playing guitar…I started diving deeper into rock and metal,” said Jason.

Both find their inspiration stemming from the golden age of the industry pre-dating the 2000s. “Reason for Broken Wings”, featured on their self-titled album, showcases Jason’s controlled, yet screeching vocal abilities that automatically brings Plant to mind. When switching to a piece like “I am Dying Soon and I have Cash I Need to Spend” the band’s range is really amplified. I have found myself in my room with this one on repeat; every listen focusing on a different aspect. Juno made a mix of funkily serious base lines with drums that bring a feeling of dread next to his brother’s deadpan delivery. The entire composition replicates the idea of a shadow creeping towards you and employs constant motion.

Are there other facets of art that you draw from when creating music?

“Books; but I don’t like reading, I like the plots,” said Juno.

“‘Reason for Broken Wings’ is inspired by the story of Icarus. I like old mythology,” said Jason.

What piece are you most proud of in particular?

“I guess probably Deus (Ex Machina) because it’s like twenty minutes long,” said Juno.

“I guess for me, my most proud song is “Bitter Winter”, because that one, it means a lot to us. It’s about a loved one that passed away,” said Jason.

Where did the band name come from?

“It’s the name of a cocktail and aftershave. During WWII sailors would drink the aftershave because of the alcohol content. Just thought it was cool,” explained Jason.

At home in Spokane, they mostly play backyard sets but hope to experience more of the music scene there soon. For those in the Pullman area they are seen often at numerous

venues. This past November they performed for KZUU’s Main Street Music Festival. Jason has even performed as an Aqua Velva solo act at the University talent show. If you have not seen them live, I encourage you to find yourself at their upcoming show on February 7th at Styner Sound House. Show starts at 7:00 PM.