Out of the Ashes

Band: Out of the Ashes
Members: Noah Luger (guitar, vocals); Matt Kuhn
(drums); Oliver Gywat (bass) Albums: Two EPs,
Out of the Ashes and Dancin’ Shoes Prior
Gigs: I.V., SOhO, Velvet Jones, Zelos, Majestic Ventura
Theatre, UCSB, CalPoly Style: “fun-lovin’ rock and
roll” Influences: Mötley Crüe and Guns ’n’ Roses
The Skinny: Two-time winner of The Independent’s
Readers’ Poll for best unsigned band, Out of the Ashes has
conquered almost every venue in Santa Barbara. Birthed four years
ago when lead singer and guitarist Noah Luger started at UCSB, the
band’s danceable music has attracted an audience of 15- to
25-year-olds. A sociology major and music minor at UCSB, Luger
writes all the music for the group — currently playing a mix of
more than 50 songs that utilize both acoustic and electric guitar.
Songs such as “Let’s Get the Party Started” and “Dancin’ Shoes”
feature rock music with an energetic dance groove. But the band
also posts a number of ballads including “As the Water,” which
parallels drowning in the sea and floundering in love. Out of the
Ashes is currently recording and working on a record contract,
hoping to expand its touring to the entire West Coast once Luger
graduates this spring. “Noah is one of those people who is
motivated and accomplished. He has a good work ethic,” manager
Jamie Dean said. “We set out to conquer Santa Barbara and we have.”
Next Gig: April 21, at the Majestic Ventura
Theatre.

— Stephanie Cain