Austria’s music scene is no stranger to talent and the variety of bands proves this again and again. Liquid Air, an alternative rock band with roots in school friendships and a shared love of music, is one such group. What defines them is not just their dynamic sound but also the journey that brought them together. Their story is one of passion, persistence, and a commitment to their craft, interwoven with the diverse musical backgrounds of its members.
The beginning of Liquid Air started at a school band. Drummer Consti and guitarist Sebastian first crossed paths in their teenage years, performing in a group characterized by its great variety of drummers. Even then, the two stood out for their dedication and leadership, taking charge of the band’s direction. Consti, had been immersed in music from a young age thanks to a music teacher as a mother. Sebastian transitioned from years of drumming to exploring guitar and other instruments.
Their collaboration flourished during a farewell concert organized by a teacher. Dissatisfied with the limitations of their school band, Sebastian and Consti brought Merlin, who they knew from school as well, on board and together they decided to craft something new. Merlin, a selftaught pianist with years of saxophone training, became the creative backbone of the emerging group, often initiating the songwriting process.
After a while Simon joined them as the bassist. Having initially struggled to find joy in playing the trumpet as a child, Simon discovered his passion for bass at age 15 when his brother Manu gifted one to him. Manu, though not a performing member, contributed his technical expertise as the band’s sound engineer, a role that would grow in importance over time.
In their early days, the band performed under the name “Lagerregal”. But as their music evolved, so did their identity. By 2019, they were writing original songs and even changed their first lineup, which included an additional vocalist and violinists. After changing that the band rebranded as Liquid Air.
Their music reflects a diverse range of influences, from the dramatic and atmospheric rock of Muse to the flamboyant harmonies of Queen. Each member brings a unique perspective to the table: Simon’s garage rock enthusiasm, Consti’s metal-inspired drumming, Sebastian’s indie pop sensibilities, and Merlin’s love for jazz and classical piano. Together, they create dynamic music that shows their collective energy.
The band’s songwriting process usually starts with Merlin setting the tone by recording rough demos—piano melodies paired with raw vocals. These drafts serve as the foundation for jam sessions, where the rest of the band add their own special part. The result is a blend of individual creativity and collective refinement. Songs that started as an idea are carefully revised to make them perfect.
Liquid Air’s lyrics often reflect their deeply held beliefs. As a group, they are united by their political views, and this comes through in their socially critical themes. Their songs tackle issues ranging from inequality to broader societal concerns.
The turning point for Liquid Air came in 2021 when they participated in the Planet Festival Tour. It was their first major outing under the new name, and the experience pushed them to new levels of professionalism. Winning the first qualifying round was a significant achievement, but narrowly missing the finals by a single vote taught them valuable lessons in resilience. Despite the setback, the contest served as the shaping of the band’s identity and preparing them for future challenges.
The road wasn’t always smooth. One specific gig riddled with technical issues showed the importance of sound engineering. This moment marked a shift for Manu, who stepped up as the band’s full-time sound technician. His expertise has since become an integral part of Liquid Air’s success, ensuring that every performance meets their high standards. The band has since played over 30 shows, each precisely planned and executed, showcasing their growth as performers.
Liquid Air’s commitment to their music extends beyond the stage. They are deeply invested in their future, with plans to release an EP and expand their reach through strategic marketing. Their goal is not just to grow their fanbase but to create a lasting impact. By focusing on both the quality of their music and the way it is presented, they aim to bring their unique sound to a broader audience.
What sets Liquid Air apart is their ability to balance professionalism with a sense of fun. While they take their music seriously, they never lose sight of the joy that brought them together. This authenticity resonates with their listeners, creating a connection that goes beyond the music.
As they look to the future, Liquid Air is driven by a shared vision: to create music that matters, inspire others, and leave their mark on the alternative rock landscape. Their story is one of creativity and with their unique sound and relentless drive, Liquid Air is ready to rise with one electrifying performance at a time.