Grandmaster is an indie prog/funk/rock collective based in Austin, Texas. Not too long ago, they released their new alternative-rock single, “Castle Door,” produced and mixed by esteemed Austin creative, Nolan Potter.
Grandmaster – “Castle Door” (Official Audio)
“‘Castle Door’ presents the image of the Grandmaster’s castle and all of his loyal followers who protect it. These followers, known as Zealots, are faced with mystery guests who continue to knock on the door of the castle, only for them to enter and never leave. Thematically, we all live in this castle with The Grandmaster. It’s similar to an orphanage. Different authority figures knock on the door, and we decline their suggestions because The Grandmaster is our only authority figure. He can’t be surpassed by anyone. It’s also a day in the life of the Zealots. If you come in, this is what you’re signing up for.” – co-founding member and lead vocalist Nick Leon stated
“Castle Door” bursts through the gates with bright piano underlines and high register, lush harmonies as a call-and-response echoes a séance between analog synths, vaporous guitar, disco beats, and alternately skyscraping and soulful vocals. The vibe resembles The Bee Gees playing that party in “Eyes Wide Shut.” Heavily influenced by Earth Wind & Fire, Steely Dan, and The Doobie Brothers, “Castle Door” set the standard for more celebratory material from the band.
Grandmaster – “Goldmine” (Official Audio)
Last fall (2023), Grandmaster released “Goldmine,” and within a year, they have already converted sold-out audiences into acolytes at an alarming rate, generating hundreds of thousands of streams in the process to boot. The band plans on releasing a full album in May 2024.
Grandmaster Band
Grandmaster comprises of Nick Leon (Lead Vocals, Piano, Rhodes, Clav), Blaise Eldred (Lead Vocals, Piano, Organ, Synthesizer), Connor Mizell (Drums, Backing Vocals), Jaxon Casey (Harp, Synthesizer), John “Cosmic” (Bass, Backing Vocals), Nick Dow (Guitar), Kenneth Frost (Synthesizers, Backing Vocals), Sydney Harding-Sloan (Vocals, Vocal Effects Processor), Quinn Decker (Percussion), Eric Ross (The Grandmaster).
Grandmaster Band
Your muse may be a divinity, a lover, a friend, or nature itself. For Grandmaster, it’s an immortal dimension-hopping ancient composer with whom they share their name and have pledged their undying allegiance. Donning red bucket hats, black uniforms, and white gloves, this cohort of nine seasoned musicians proudly rallies as The Grandmaster’s “Zealots,” performing his “ritualistic funk” compositions as their songs.
As the story goes, co-founders Leon, Eldred, and Mizell met as teens in Texas. Unlocking a lifelong creative bond, they went on to record and perform around Austin in local favorites such as Sexpop, Lick Neon, and Acid Carousel. Following the dissolution of the latter, Leon, Eldred, and Mizell feverishly wrote and recorded songs under the spell of “The Grandmaster.”
Grandmaster – Season 1
At the same time, they also shot an episodic YouTube series, establishing the lore and immersing audiences in a rapidly unfolding ecosystem. At first, their symbology engendered fascination on social media, leading to a string of sold-out shows. Simultaneously, the song “Goldmine” was released in September 2023, and Grandmaster was profiled by outlets such as Voyage Austin.
Grandmaster – “Castle Door” single
We recommend adding Grandmaster’s “Castle Door” single to your favorite alternative rock playlist. Also, let us know how you feel in the comment section below. Mel Blanc’s famous catchphrase, That’s All Folks! Thanks for reading another great article on Bong Mines Entertainment – the hot spot for new music and positive entertainment news. Always remember that (P) Positive, (E) Energy, (A) Always, (C) Creates, (E) Elevation (P.E.A.C.E). Contact us on social media via Twitter, YouTube, Instagram, or Facebook, and let us know what’s going on. Also, don’t forget to subscribe to our newsletter, support our merchandise, and become a Patron of Bong Mines Entertainment. Disclaimer: This post contains Apple Music affiliate links. We may earn an affiliate commission when you buy through links on our site. That little compensation will be used towards keeping this website up and running.