Join Smiggles as they sit down with San Antonio emo quintet Ussen at Tandem San Antonio. Hear how the band first came together, what influences helped shape their emotionally charged sound, and why they’re setting the record straight about not being shoegaze.
In this sit-down, Ussen shares how it all began — from the early days of Eli, Chris, and Daniel in Nostalgia Trip, to Adonis’s introduction to the band. Each member brings a different voice to the table, both musically and emotionally, creating a sound that draws from Novelty’s screamo vocals and Smashing Pumpkins’ instrumentals.
But don’t call them shoegaze. While their songs may carry some elements that suggest otherwise, their sound is built on “dabs and BuzzBalls,” each member using their own style to shape the emo quintet’s raw and energetic atmosphere.
With a growing presence and more shows on the horizon, the band talks about their goals for the future and how they hope to keep evolving without losing what makes them feel real.
Watch the full interview to learn how Ussen came together, why their sound stands apart, and what inspires them to keep going.