Wax Owls is an indie folk group hailing from Pasadena, California, blending acoustic instrumentation with heartfelt vocals to create a sound that is both intimate and expansive. Formed in late 2021, the band quickly gained recognition for its unique blend of acoustic melodies, ambient textures, and evocative storytelling. The group’s sound resonates deeply with listeners, earning praise from outlets like American Songwriter for its truly American sound that inspires and moves its audience.
The Beginnings of Wax Owls
The formation of Wax Owls is a story that intertwines music, fate, and a bit of luck. Lead singer-songwriter Gerry Hirschfeld, who was once a practicing attorney, met drummer Chris Tsaganeas in a way that only seems destined. Despite not wanting to connect with another lawyer during his downtime, a suggestion from his partner led to an unexpected meeting that would change the course of his career. Chris, a lawyer and musician, immediately hit it off with Gerry, and their shared love of music brought them together to form a band.
Gerry’s decision to leave behind a legal career to focus on music was a leap of faith. He taught himself how to record and produce music, a skill that would prove invaluable as Wax Owls began their musical journey. Their first single, “Set It Free,” became a major breakthrough, landing a placement in the movie What She Said. This was just the beginning of their growing success.
Wax Owls’ Rise to Fame
Following the release of “Set It Free,” Wax Owls began to build momentum, landing other sync placements in prominent television shows such as Grey’s Anatomy, Station 19, and Vanderpump Rules. The band’s music also appeared in the reality TV series Love is Blind, further establishing their presence in the entertainment industry.
Their success didn’t stop at placements. Wax Owls found themselves performing at renowned festivals like Pilgrimage Festival, Peach Fest, SXSW, and Bonnaroo. For a band still in its early stages, these opportunities seemed almost surreal. It was clear that their sound, which combines a rich mix of folk influences and contemporary indie elements, was resonating with a wide audience.
The Band Members: A Blend of Experience and Talent
While Wax Owls might be a relatively new band, its members bring a wealth of experience to the table. Prior to forming Wax Owls, Gerry Hirschfeld had already worked with some of the biggest names in music. He had written and performed with artists like Willie Nelson, Kris Kristofferson, Leon Russell, and even Howie D from the Backstreet Boys. This rich background in music and performance has undoubtedly shaped his approach to songwriting and performance, bringing a depth and authenticity to the band’s music.
Chris Tsaganeas, the band’s drummer, has his own impressive resume. Before Wax Owls, he was a founding member of Fancy Reagan and performed with Forest Blakk, adding his own expertise in rhythm and percussion to the band’s unique sound. Their diverse musical backgrounds and experiences have helped shape Wax Owls into a dynamic group capable of crafting music that speaks to both the heart and the soul.
Looking Ahead: What’s Next for Wax Owls
Wax Owls is far from slowing down. The band has big plans for 2026, with plans to release 10 new songs throughout the year. These upcoming releases are expected to showcase some of the band’s best melodies yet, as well as some of their most innovative production choices. Fans can also look forward to hearing collaborations with Alex Katunich, the former bass player of Incubus. With such a strong lineup of talent involved, these releases are sure to build upon the band’s already impressive legacy.
Wax Owls is also set to have two of their songs featured in the upcoming indie film Our Bodies and Other Shames. This marks another significant step in the band’s career, as they continue to establish their place in both the music and film industries.
Wax Owls’ Unique Sound
At the core of Wax Owls’ music is an authentic, emotional connection to both the craft of songwriting and the experience of the listener. Their sound is often described as both intimate and expansive, with layers of acoustic instruments and ambient textures that create a rich and immersive listening experience. The heartfelt vocals of Gerry Hirschfeld lead the way, drawing the listener in with their raw emotion and vulnerability.
Their music has been praised for its ability to evoke a wide range of emotions, from the quiet introspection of a solo acoustic moment to the soaring energy of a full-band crescendo. American Songwriter captured this essence perfectly, describing their music as “the melody of the crescendo crashing into an open heart wanting more.” This ability to connect with listeners on an emotional level has been a driving force behind the band’s success.
Why Wax Owls’ Music Resonates with Listeners
One of the key reasons Wax Owls has garnered such a dedicated following is their ability to capture the essence of the human experience in their music. Their songs reflect universal themes of love, longing, and personal growth, all framed within the context of everyday life. The band’s music is deeply relatable, yet still carries a sense of wonder and aspiration that makes it feel timeless.
Moreover, Wax Owls’ ability to blend folk elements with modern production techniques gives their music a fresh, contemporary feel. The band’s unique blend of acoustic and ambient sounds creates a rich tapestry of textures that keep the listener engaged from start to finish. Their thoughtful and innovative approach to songwriting and production ensures that their music stands out in a crowded indie music scene.
Connect with Wax Owls
If you’re interested in learning more about Wax Owls, checking out their music, or following their latest updates, you can connect with them on their social media channels:
- Instagram: @waxowls
- YouTube: Wax Owls on YouTube
- Spotify: Wax Owls on Spotify
Whether you’re a longtime fan or new to their music, Wax Owls’ blend of folk, indie, and ambient sounds is sure to leave a lasting impression. Stay tuned for their upcoming releases and exciting new projects in 2026.
