Stealing Handshakes: A Rising Alt Rock Band from Pampa, Texas
Stealing Handshakes is quickly making a name for themselves in the alt-rock scene. Hailing from Pampa, Texas, and fresh off their latest release, “The Fallout”, the band has a lineup of shows and more new music in the works.
The band’s name came from a mix of ideas. Lead singer Nolan Burr and bassist Ryan Rivera were both previously part of a band called City Will Shake. An inside joke in that group was "stealing" a handshake from a friend with a playful "gotcha." When brainstorming new band names, they considered this idea and felt it was the perfect fit.
The band formed when members from two previous groups, City Will Shake and Crossroads, came together. drummer Daniel Garcia and original guitarist Rylan Hathcoat were from Crossroads, while Nolan Burr and Ryan Rivera represented City Will Shake. The two bands merged into a new project, and Nolan credits Rylan and Daniel with “putting the pieces together.”
What Does Each Member Bring to the Band?
Nolan Burr (Lead Vocals) – Brings a positive spirit, strong vocals, a unique voice, creativity in songwriting, and leadership.
JC (Guitar) – Injects a lot of energy into the band with a heavier element to the music.
Ryan Rivera (Bass) – Holds the rhythm together by locking in with the drums, writes unique bass lines, and keeps the group level-headed and calm.
Daniel Garcia (Drums) – Brings good, unique rhythms with emotion and personality in his playing, while holding the band together with a wide knowledge of music.
Influences
Rather than trying to sound like other bands, Stealing Handshakes focuses on the emotional impact of their music. They draw inspiration from a range of genres, including alternative rock, "dad rock," '90s rock, and post-grunge. One influence they all agree on is Foo Fighters.
“No one sings like you anymore.”
Favorite Live Shows
When asked about their favorite live performances, the band was torn but agreed on a few standout shows. Their top picks include their gigs at Bad Magic and the Cody Jasper with Stealing Handshakes and Bardown show on August 9th.
Promoting Their Music
Stealing Handshakes has also developed a reputation for being great at promoting their shows and music. Promotion is a skill that they’ve honed, and they shared some tips for other bands:
Manage Your Finances: Get your band set up with a band dedicated account for routing income. Staying on top of your finances helps you plan for future goals like equipment, studio time, and merch.
Plan Ahead: With your financial system in place, start planning for future needs like new equipment, promotion, and more.
Social Media: Facebook and Instagram are their favorite platforms to promote on, and they recommend focusing efforts there.
Networking Advice
Stealing Handshakes also emphasized the importance of networking within the music community. Here’s their advice:
Support Other Bands: Attend shows, stay for the other acts, help them out, and engage with their content. The band believes it’s important to understand that “we’re all living the dream and can support each other.”
Upcoming Live Shows
Rocktober – October 19th at Rockwell Event Center in Canyon, TX
“It’s better to burn out than to fade away.”
Check out more local musicians via Loud and Heavy Booking.
