If you are a fan of music that defies labels, Bay Faction will be your next obsession. The band consists of lead singer James McDermott, bassist Kris Roman, and drummer Alex Agresti who have been making music together since 2014. The band told SHEESH! that they originally met through the Internet while living in Boston, Massachusetts, but McDermott added cheekily that he and Agresti had “smoked cigarettes together between classes for years” before they started to play music together. Since then, they’ve grown into a touring band with over 100,000 monthly Spotify listeners.
Bay Faction’s music is instantly addictive. At first listen, their songs sound familiar and nostalgic, but also unlike anything else popular at the moment. The melancholy lyrics and groovy beat create a haunting mix of emotions which McDermott, the lead singer, delivers beautifully in his low voice. Each song on their Florida Guilt album (December 2018) is sure to either cause self-reflection or make you want to dance, and you’ll probably end up doing a combination of both.
SHEESH! had the pleasure of seeing Bay Faction perform in San Diego, California. During their live performance, McDermott’s voice was just as striking as it is on the recorded album, and the chemistry between the entire band is clearly visible. Throughout their performance, the band joked with each other and engaged with the audience. When asked which song is their favorite to perform, the band stated that they enjoy playing Donor because of the reaction from the crowd, and they feel that “people connect with it the most live”. And it is true ― the crowd’s energy during Bay Faction’s performance is enough to overpower a small venue like Che Cafe in San Diego. Overall, the band is impressive in both their album making and performing skills, and they likely won’t be playing these small venues for much longer.
It is also admirable just how friendly McDermott, Roman, and Agresti are: they go out of their way to interact with their growing fanbase both online and in person at venues. It is a praiseworthy trait for artists receiving so much positive attention to stay humble and grateful for every fan. This is a band deserving of your support.
Check out these songs to become a fan: Soppping, Ur My Bug, Donor, and Swan Dive. To follow Bay Faction on Instagram, Click here!
