Ashley Cromeens, one half of the avant-pop duo Def Rain, should be familiar to anyone who has kept up with the North Texas music scene. For eight years she fronted Record Hop, a brash, grungy rock n’ roll band based out of Denton. She also helped put together NEEKS, a hip-hop/comedic ensemble replete with two MCs, a DJ, dancers, and sometimes, a dude drinking whiskey in a corner, alone. Based on these various creative endeavors, it is apparent that Cromeens is eclectic in her musical tastes. Along with Grant Ring, her fellow NEEKS cohort, she has created something, once again, very different for Def Rain. There are similarities to early Beach House on the self-titled debut album, mostly in Cromeens’ husky voice and the lo-fi sound of the recordings. You’ll notice, as well, a hip-hop influence apparent both in the songs themselves, and in the vibe of their live performance. This is not coincidental. “After being in Record Hop for 8 plus years, I craved something poppier,” Cromeens says.” I wanted to do something that people could dance to and I wanted to put on a performance that was different than what I was used to seeing. With Def Rain, I pretty much wanted it to be the perfect mix of Wu-tang clan and Broadcast—sweet beats and pretty melodies.” With dreamy tunes and a live show that is surreal and infectious, their performances are something not to be missed. You can see them on Saturday, June 6th, at Skewed, presented by Art Conspiracy. 

Written by: Christopher Hughes

BUY TICKETS: bit.ly/acskewed

Art Conspiracy presents SKEWED will be held at Life in Deep Ellum, 2803 Taylor St. Dallas, TX 75226, on Saturday, June 6. Doors open at 7 pm. Show from 7:30-11:00 pm. Tickets on sale for $10 per ticket.

Art Conspiracy organizers and musicians are available for interviews. Additional press imagery and graphics are available upon request. For more information, please contact Erica Felicella at erica@cellaarts.com or call (214) 563-8095.

About Art Conspiracy

Art Conspiracy is a nonprofit community that conspires to bring artists and musicians together, raise funds, and activate awareness for regional creative programs and causes.

*Update: in the original post Grant Ring’s last name was recorded incorrectly.