uncle lucius

Biography

Uncle Lucius is a Texas-based band formed in Austin in 2005 by Kevin Galloway, a Freeport native who grew up immersed in classic country music and initially pursued a banking career before dedicating himself to music. Galloway moved to Austin, where he met bassist Hal Vorpahl at open-mic nights, and together they began collaborating. The group expanded with guitarist Mike Carpenter and drummer Josh Greco, quickly earning a reputation for their soulful blend of country, blues, and rock, infused with a jam band sensibility that resonated with live audiences. Their debut album, 'Something They Ain't,' arrived in 2006, followed by 'Pick Your Head Up' in 2009, and 'And You Are Me' in 2012, each release showcasing their evolving sound and deepening their roots in the Austin music scene.[1][2][6]

Uncle Lucius became known for their energetic live performances and authentic songwriting, drawing influences from classic Texas country, Southern rock, and blues. Their signature song, 'Keep the Wolves Away,' achieved viral success after being featured in the TV series Yellowstone, earning gold and platinum certifications and expanding their fanbase internationally. The band went on hiatus in 2018 after a farewell tour, but their legacy continued to grow, prompting a reunion and the release of 'Like It's The Last One Left' in 2023, which marked a new chapter with fresh members and a revitalized musical direction.[5][7]

Throughout their career, Uncle Lucius has embodied the spirit of Austin's independent music scene, building a catalog of critically acclaimed albums and cultivating a devoted following. Their music is characterized by heartfelt lyrics, soulful grooves, and a willingness to explore new sonic territories, making them influential figures in the red dirt, Texas country, and outlaw country genres.[1][5][6]

Fun Facts

• Their song 'Keep the Wolves Away' went viral after being featured in an episode of Yellowstone, earning gold and platinum certifications.[5][7]
• Uncle Lucius wore out five vans during their decade-long touring career, a testament to their relentless live schedule.[5][1]
• The band's farewell tour ended with two sold-out nights at Gruene Hall, Texas's oldest continually operating dance hall.[1]
• After their hiatus, founding member Hal Vorpahl returned as the band's producer and behind-the-scenes songwriter, described as the 'silent seventh member.'[5]

Musical Connections

Mentors/Influences

• Classic Country Artists (e.g., Willie Nelson, Waylon Jennings) - Galloway was raised on classic country, which shaped his songwriting and vocal style. (General stylistic influence across all albums) [Childhood to present]

Key Collaborators

• Hal Vorpahl - Co-founder, original bassist, later producer and songwriter for the band. (All early albums; producer/songwriter for 'Like It's The Last One Left') [2005–2017, 2023–present]
• Mike Carpenter - Lead guitarist, contributed blues and rock influences. (All albums) [2005–present]
• Josh Greco - Drummer and percussionist, integral to live sound and studio recordings. (All albums) [2009–present]
• Jon Grossman - Keyboardist and vocalist, joined during later years. (Recent albums) [2012–present]
• Doug Strahan - Guitarist, joined for the reunion and new musical direction. ('Like It's The Last One Left') [2023–present]
• Drew Scherger - Bassist, joined for the reunion. ('Like It's The Last One Left') [2023–present]

Artists Influenced

• Emerging Texas Country and Red Dirt Artists - Uncle Lucius's blend of roots rock and country soul has inspired younger acts in the Texas music scene. (General stylistic inspiration; cited by artists such as Whiskey Myers and The Steel Woods) [2010s–present]

Discography

Albums

Top Tracks

1. Keep The Wolves Away (And You Are Me)
2. Ain't It The Same (Pick Your Head Up)
3. Liquor Store (Pick Your Head Up)
4. Pocket Full of Misery (And You Are Me)
5. All Your Gold (Pick Your Head Up)
6. A Million Ways (Pick Your Head Up)
7. Gulf Coast Gypsies (The Light)
8. Pick Your Head Up (Pick Your Head Up)
9. The Light (The Light)
10. Hold On Your Heart (Pick Your Head Up)

External Links

• Spotify
• Wikipedia
• MusicBrainz