Rock ‘n’ roll is not dead. Young Fort Worth band Olive Vox is here to show up for the music, the fashion and the fun that was once the associated with the biggest rock acts of all time.
Last week, Olive Vox celebrated the release of their latest single “Superstition” at Tulips FTW, with supporting acts Caroline Carr, Pet Taxi and GLÜESTICK.
These bands seem to have their finger on the pulse of the younger generation as they revive the punk/rock movement of coming as you are, showing out, and fearless inclusivity.
Olive Vox’s latest single “Superstition” was release two weeks ago. Photo: Jessica Waffles
Olive Vox celebrated their latest single release with a party at Tulips FTW. Photo: Jessica Waffles
Co-founding member of Olive Vox Caden Shea on stage at Tulips FTW. Photo: Jessica Waffles
The die-hard fans in attendance were enveloped in layers of leather, mesh, plaid, boots, lace, studs, eyeliner and more in their fashionable self-expression. There was a sense of community among them, nostalgic of the punk scene that brought people together in the 90’s.
Olive Vox co-founders (and brothers) Parker James and Caden Shea make it a point to be fashion-forward on stage while staying true to their artistic nature.
“A show is who you are, you’re putting on a performance. We wear whatever the hell we wanna wear,” James said. “In the South, it can feel like you’re kinda repressed by the norm. Even my day-to-day isn’t normal. When we get on stage and wear big transparent shirts, big chains, old lingerie, whatever – it just adds to the performance. We love vintage, and we definitely take inspiration from that.”
The music fans at Tulips were engaged with the performances during the whole show. Photo: Jessica Waffles
Parker James’ energy on stage has a hint of chaotic good. Photo: Jessica Waffles
Each member of Olive Vox brings their own personal style to the stage. Photo: Jessica Waffles
“I feel like shows over the years have lost that flair,” Shea says. “Rock shows have always been this extravagant thing, like gender bending and pushing against the norm – pushing identity. Punks did it, rock kids in 80’s hair metal bands did it. We’re just like, ‘Let’s start having fun again.'”
Olive Vox’s latest release “Superstition” emerged from their earlier years – when Shea (now 17) was just 14 years old and James was 19 years old. The song took on a new life as the band recorded it at EastWest Studios in Los Angeles with producer James Saez.
“I didn’t put a microphone in my mouth because I thought people would like it. I did it because it’s funny. Just be yourself, who gives a sh**?” – Parker James “Photo: Jessica Waffles
Caden Shea has the blessing/curse of perfect pitch, which helps with his discernment in the studio. Photo: Jessica Waffles
Watching Olive Vox perform was like watching young rock stars making their way to the stratosphere. Photo: Jessica Waffles
The change of scenery breathed fresh inspiration into their music, and the song now speaks to the concept of generational superstitions, urging listeners to look beyond the surface and question the beliefs they hold. The lyrics delve into the complexities of parent-child relationships and encourage open communication.
“There’s a lyric in the song that says, ‘It only takes a couple hours to get to know your kids.'” James said. “There are parents who are so quick to assume what their kids are doing, what they’re into. Just talk to them as people before you go along accusing them of things.”
A moment on stage with Olive Vox. Photo: Jessica Waffles
Caden Shea (left) and Parker James (right) are the sibling masterminds behind Olive Vox. Photo: Jessica Waffles
Olive Vox’ aura on stage is unique and inviting. Photo: Jessica Waffles
Olive Vox also released a single and music video “Wash You Away” in May 2023 with director Andrew Valentine, shot in Texas to match the photo shoot concept they created with Tati Bruening.
The band’s involvement in directing the video allowed them to create a compelling narrative that aligns seamlessly with the song’s lyrics. The video’s concept stemmed from the imagery of roses and flowers, symbolizing the act of washing away negative influences, making a powerful statement about the need to cleanse one’s life.
Olive Vox’ next single and music video, “All My Friends Are Dead,” is planned for release in the next few months. “It’s a very youthful song, it’s just kinda out there,” Shea said. “Sometimes being in Texas we feel like we don’t belong. We don’t have a lot of solid friends, and when you already feel like you don’t belong it can be hard when you try communicating.”
Heavy rock drops brought the whole band to life on stage. Photo: Jessica Waffles
Parker James momentarily defies gravity on stage. Photo: Jessica Waffles
Caroline Carr made her full band debut at Tulips FTW. Photo: Jessica Waffles
Reflecting on the past two years since we first spoke with Olive Vox, the band has undergone significant growth. Their development has been fueled by a determination to refine their songwriting skills and create the best possible music. Shea (the lead music composer in Olive Vox) has expanded his musical influences beyond indie bands, drawing inspiration from pop icons like Billie Eilish. They emphasize the importance of adapting their sound while staying true to their artistic integrity, creating a distinct blend that resonates with a wide audience.
“Before, it was like, ‘Let’s look at what Kurt Cobain did,” James said. “We took inspiration from small indie bands. But we could only write music like that for so long. Looking at pop music, it’s like a whole new format and new way to approach it.”
Caroline Carr’s latest single “Innocent Consent” has already hit over 200,000 streams on Spotify since its drop in May 2023. Photo: Jessica Waffles
The movement in Caroline Carr’s bassist Cat was a whirlwind of energy. Photo: Jessica Waffles
Caroline Carr’s stage makeup was captivating to the audience. Photo: Jessica Waffles
As brothers, James and Shea share a unique dynamic that fuels their creative process. Their close bond allows for seamless collaboration and constant communication, enabling them to work on music whenever inspiration strikes.
“Since I’m older, you’d think I’m in charge,” James laughed. “But Caden’s blunt when we’re in the studio. Caden’s got perfect pitch. So when I’m in the booth and I think I nailed it, Caden’s like ‘Redo it! The note’s flat.’ It’s very serious.”
Shea chimed in, “But it’s not like some random person you’re bossing around, it’s your brother. I think it’s nice, the whole aspect of being brothers. We’re always together, we don’t need to schedule rehearsals. Even if we’re not together, I can call him any time and play him a song over the phone if I get an idea.”
Cat in motion at Tulips FTW. Photo: Jessica Waffles
Caroline Carr’s powerful stage presence has the crowd in the palm of her hand. Photo: Jessica Waffles
Over the past year, Caroline Carr had been performing with olive Vox as her backing band. Photo: Jessica Waffles
“‘Olive Vox’ translates to ‘speak peace,’ with the symbol of like an olive branch for peace and ‘vox’ is Latin for voice,” James said. “[Our message to listeners is] be unapologetically yourself.”
Olive Vox’s music is more than just a collection of notes; it’s a reflection of their vision and message. Their songs encourage listeners to embrace their individuality, to shed societal expectations, and to speak their minds boldly. Through their music, Olive Vox seeks to promote unity and understanding, reminding us that we’re all in this together.
“Everyone cares about themselves too much to care about you,” Shea said. “Just be a corn ball, do stuff that people would call cringe. As long as you’re happy doing it.”
Caroline Carr exuded absolute happiness on stage, voicing her gratitude for those who support her. Photo: Jessica Waffles
The show at Tulips was Caroline Carr’s first time performing a full set. Photo: Jessica Waffles
Cat is a powerhouse bassist and the perfect match for Caroline Carr’s music. Photo: Jessica Waffles
Catch Olive Vox at their upcoming shows:
- August 11 (Austin): The 13th Floor w/ Caroline Carr, Grocery Bag & Slurp the World
- September 8 (Tyler): The Green Room
- September 23 (Denton): Andy’s Bar w/ Max Diaz
- September 30 (San Antonio): Paper Tiger w/ Max Diaz
GLÜESTICK opened up the show at Tulips FTW. Photo: Jessica Waffles
GLÜESTICK’s “girl punk” music was the perfect way to set the tone for the night. Photo: Jessica Waffles
Pet Taxi on stage at Tulips FTW. Photo: Jessica Waffles
You may recognize Pet Taxi from KXT’s coverage of the ‘TIl Midnight at the Nasher show last month. Photo: Jessica Waffles
James Wilson on stage at Tulips FTW as part of Pet Taxi. Photo: Jessica Waffles
Jake Bateman on stage with Pet Taxi at Tulips FTW. Photo: Jessica Waffles
Tulips FTW welcomes Olive Vox. Photo: Jessica Waffles
Jessica Waffles is a freelance photographer/videographer and regular contributor to KXT.
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