Tune-Yards

About the Artist

Tune-Yards is the brainchild of Merrill Garbus, an artist who has been pushing musical boundaries since forming the band in 2006. Their performances are anything but predictable, marked by explosive energy and inventive song structures that often blend complex rhythms with vibrant vocal layering. The band's debut, 'BiRd-BrAiNs,' was heralded for its DIY spirit and lo-fi abrasiveness, signaling Garbus's penchant for bold innovation. Not just a musical force, Tune-Yards has intertwined their art with activism, notably raising funds for water-related causes through their 'Water Fountain' initiative—reflecting a deep commitment that goes beyond the stage. Their sonic experiments caught critical acclaim with albums like 'w h o k i l l,' which dominated the 2011 Village Voice poll and featured a startlingly adventurous sound. Collaborations with luminaries like Yoko Ono and David Byrne only highlight their expansive creative reach. Their live shows are often described as immersive and kinetic, as if the energy harnessed is less about mere entertainment and more about creating a vibrant communal experience. Somehow, amidst the complexity and urgency, there's a playful, almost cheeky wink in their approach—a reminder that avant-garde doesn't need to be somber to be serious.