Heathers is making plenty of noise with the release of Awesome, the debut album from 23-year-old Missouri musician Heath Michael Thomas. Released through Warner Records, the 14-track collection delivers a high-energy blast of garage rock, infectious melodies, and raw, unapologetic instrumentation.
Recorded largely at home, Awesome captures the kind of unfiltered energy that makes garage rock so much fun. The songs are loud, immediate, and packed with hooks, pulling listeners in one guitar-driven anthem at a time. As Thomas puts it, “I write about what makes me angry, because it’s what makes me human.”
The album’s release also comes with a publishing deal with Warner Chappell Music, marking another major step forward for the emerging artist.
Thomas’ DIY roots go back to Cape Girardeau, Missouri, where he started experimenting with his father’s guitars and home-recording equipment at just 11 years old. After years playing in high school bands, he eventually turned his attention to Heathers, building a sound around his own songwriting and recording instincts.
For Awesome, Thomas teamed up with engineer Lars Stalfors (Wisp, The Mars Volta) to give those home-recorded tracks added definition without losing their rough-edged character. The album includes previously released singles “I Believe in You” and “Awesome,” along with early favorites “Bite” and “Drive/Park,” the latter earning a spot on Pitchfork’s Selects playlist.
To celebrate the release, Heathers performs at The Oblivion in Los Angeles before heading out for four dates supporting Inner Wave. Three headline shows are also planned for the new year, with stops in Los Angeles, Chicago, and Brooklyn.
With a major label debut, a growing audience, and plenty of volume to spare, Heathers is off to a loud start.
Heathers Live Dates
^ supporting Inner Wave
10/30 – Los Angeles, CA @ The Oblivion
11/02 – Flagstaff, AZ @ Orpheum Theatre ^
11/03 – Tucson, AZ @ La Rosa ^
11/04 – Pioneertown, CA @ Pappy & Harriet’s ^
11/05 – Ventura, CA @ Ventura Music Hall ^
1/21 – Los Angeles, CA @ The Echo
1/23 – Chicago, IL @ Schubas
1/27 – Brooklyn, NY @ Union Pool
