LOS ANGELES, CA- If you’ve ever wondered what it might sound like if The Avett Brothers and Modest Mouse birthed a hybrid music child, meet Timmy Skelly. On October 30, 2024, he unveiled his debut EP Dive Bar Sermon at El Cid in Los Angeles. Released just weeks prior on October 18, 2024, Dive Bar Sermon is a banger of an introduction to Skelly’s artistry. The three standout tracks — “Soul On Fire,” “Dive Bar Sermon,” and “Come On Diana” — showcase his range, from anthemic hooks to poignant reflections and reckless abandon.
“Soul On Fire” sets the tone with its driving rhythm and impassioned vocals. The song’s familiarity feels like it’s drawing from the best of classic rock while maintaining a unique modern flair. Meanwhile, “Dive Bar Sermon” slows things down, inviting listeners into a more introspective space. Skelly’s ability to weave narrative and melody is on full display here, making it the emotional cornerstone of the EP.
Finally, “Come On Diana” is pure, unbridled fun. Its structure, packed with memorable melodic lines and dynamic shifts, is a masterclass in songwriting. From its catchy chorus to the layered bridge and the chilled-out outro, the track embodies the spirit of youthful spontaneity.
The night was a joyous convergence of family, friends, and fervent fans dressed in Halloween costumes — some even emulating Skelly himself. The Midwest “Y’alternative” scene, as Skelly cheekily dubs his genre, took center stage, proving to be a blend of raw authenticity and melodic craftsmanship.
Tyler Ballgame kicked off the night with a tender, stripped-down set. Accompanied by a single guitarist, his sound was imbued with a Roy Orbison-esque vulnerability and even had a hint of Orbison’s signature vibrato. The emotional depth was palpable. Each song seemed to wade through intimate confessions and wistful reflections. The subdued arrangement allowed his lyrics and soft vocal timbre to shine, providing a tranquil beginning to the night.
Boxtrod is a Los Angeles-based producer, singer, and songwriter known for his innovative approach to music production. In a recent interview, he discussed his latest project, How Long Does Love Last Green?, and shared insights into his creative process, including building a recording cabin in the wilderness. His music often delves into themes of love and introspection, with tracks like “In My Head” receiving positive reviews for their unique sound.
Wilter is an emerging artist whose work has been described as melancholic, eerie, and soothing. His debut EP, All This Leaving, released in 2022, is a coming-of-age reckoning that explores themes of grief, loss, change, and growth. His sophomore EP, chaser, was released in June of 2024 and showcases his ethereal musical style.
Their collaborative performance at El Cid was a testament to their individual talents and their ability to create a cohesive, atmospheric experience for the audience.
By the time Timmy Skelly stepped into the spotlight, the audience was primed for something memorable, and Skelly did not disappoint. Opening his set with the anthemic “Soul On Fire,” he immediately had the crowd bobbing their heads and mouthing lyrics. The track’s addictive hooks and clever transitions kept the energy electric. As Skelly’s band of musicians (at points reaching up to 7 players on the stage!) filled the venue with a wall of sound, it became clear that his live performances are as much about collective joy as they are about musical precision.
Skelly’s sound defies neat categorization. Equal parts folk, country, and rock, it’s a sonic gumbo with the zest of southern swagger and Midwestern grit. Songs like “Come On Diana” were crowd favorites, showcasing Skelly’s gift for crafting unforgettable melodies. The layered composition of the track — from its introspective verses to its raucous choruses — exemplified the artistic balance that makes Skelly’s music feel fresh yet familiar.
Much credit for the night’s success goes to Skelly’s ensemble. The musicians’ chemistry was undeniable, their interplay lending an improvisational flair to the setlist. Whether it was the fiddle’s plaintive cry, the rhythmic groove of dual guitars, or the subtle texture of keys, the band delivered a lush soundscape that complemented Skelly’s storytelling. For a debut artist, assembling such a formidable live setup speaks to his ambition and artistic vision.
One notable highlight of the set was the title track, “Dive Bar Sermon,” a contemplative slow-rolling rocker of a cut that had the room hanging on every word. Its introspective lyrics felt like a quiet prayer amidst the otherwise boisterous celebration, offering a glimpse into the emotional depth behind Skelly’s exuberant persona.
For all its celebratory energy, Skelly’s performance carried an undercurrent of earnestness that resonated deeply. In a market saturated with trends and fleeting fads, his music feels like a refreshing nod to authenticity. For me, the show was such a fantastic introduction to Timmy’s music, and it made me a fan. I really hope that his music can reach and resonate with others. And I’d definitely advise anybody interested to catch him live at some point. How do I really feel about this kid’s new music? Let’s put it this way… If you know me, you know I love my vinyl. I’d be the first in line to buy a copy of this EP on vinyl. Where’s the damn gofundme link, dude? I got money to spend.
Timmy Skelly’s debut at El Cid was more than just a concert; it was a celebration of a promising new voice in music. With Dive Bar Sermon, he has laid the groundwork for what could be a defining career. And if this performance is any indication, his live shows are destined to become legendary.
So, what’s next for this Midwest Y’alternative troubadour? Wherever his journey takes him, one thing is certain: Skelly’s music will continue to inspire, uplift, and get stuck in your head in the best way possible. “Raise a beer in thanks to another good day”, and some more good music from Timmy Skelly.
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LIVE CLIPS
