Battle of the (local) bands

in Entertainment by
The Magic City Hippies plans to perform at music festivals including Lollapalooza, Bonnaroo and BottleRock.(Photo/MagicCityHippies.com)

With Miami’s highlight on Latin pop, Soundcloud rappers and acclaimed disco music, it’s easy to forget the indie-funk bands at the center of the city’s nightlife. From The Fortune Tellers to The Heavy Pets, here are a few bands to introduce you to the growing scene.

Magic City Hippies

Band members Carli Acosta, Raven Nieto, Kyle Fink and Jake Karner create a signature indie funk sound. With shows in cities ranging from Tampa to Jacksonville, the group spreads its rock and roll vibes on tour. Their music is available on spotifyapple music and bandcamp.


The Fortune Tellers

This Kendall-based band has released three albums since forming, titled “Get Them Good,” “Like it is” and “Fortune Tellers.” Their indie-rock style creates a soothing pop tune throughout venues across the country. The self entitled “storytelling”  band includes singer Kelsey Blue and percussionist Brandon Perez Urrutia. Listen to their music here.

The band has dubbed their sound as “folkadelic” stemming from their folk and indie influences.(Photo/Miami New Times)


The Heavy Pets

Originally hailing from Goshen, New York, the jazz-infused rock-and-roll band made its South Florida debut in a Broward County patio in 2005. By 2006 they had already played at 350 gigs and at venues such as Alligator Alley and Fat Cats. The band released their first album in March 2007, titled Whale. The 21 track album featured songs ranging from rock, reggae, to folk. Find their music here.

The band released their newest album, “Strawberry Mansion”, January 2018. (Photo/The Heavy Pets)


No matter what music you’re looking for, Miami’s got a spot for it. Find jazz in Miami’s Le Chat Noir or hear an indie-rock band play in Lagniappe House. Either way, an unfamiliar sound is waiting to be discovered.

Emma Remudo is a senior at American Heritage School and third year staff member of the Patriot Post. Outside of room 9114, she likes to spend her time participating in clubs like TASSEL and FBLA. When she is off campus you can find her watching one of her favorite shows, "Rain," or learning how to cook.