Instant Empire is one of Denver’s best kept secrets. Fresh off the release of their sophomore effort, Heavy Hollow,  the six-piece has been heralded by local press as the next up-and-coming band to watch.

Denver’s Westword likens Instant Empire to The Hold Steady and The Mountain Goats, calling Heavy Hollow a project “dripping with ambition” that is a ”blunt-force drama…dotted by nuanced rhythm and expertly paced melody.” Likewise, Reverb says “together, the outfit cranks out anthemic tracks that ring with honesty and sincerity.”

The indie rock band solidified its lineup just last year, placing Matt Grizzell on drums, Aaron Stone on bass, Doug Chase on keyboards and Sean Connaughty and Lou Kucera on guitar. Scotty Saunders leads the band’s dynamic sound as lead vocalist.

Together, the band produces sweeping, anthem-esque stories of love, youth, recklessness, freedom and uncertainty that are sure to pique the interest of even the staunchest music critic. Check out their video for "Cadillac Road (live)".




Instant Empire plays alongside Austin-based trio, The Rocketboys and California-based band From Indian Lakes tonight at Hi-Dive (Denver). Tickets are $7 and be purchased at the door. Doors open at 8PM and the show starts at 9PM. The show is 21+ and tickets and more information is available online here.