Grey Fiction

“ I finally got my camera to the right settings, just as Grey Fiction came on. Within the first measure or two the crowd and my ears perked up. Energy instantly filled the room. What I liked most about Grey Fiction was their musicianship. Its not very often a bunch of fine musicians right some songs. Don’t get me wrong, there are lots of great bands out there that make fun, entertaining music. But most of those bands just make great sounding songs. Four cords here, three cords there, doesn’t always (in my book) constitute great musicians. Everyone might not like the sounds of Grey Fusion, but you have to admit they know their instruments. And they make great solid music. Love the technical drumming, Dave Gilmore (Pink Floyd) influenced guitar solos and pure voice. Or as their Facebook page states: “Grey Fiction is a fantastical entrancement of pure music; a melodic storm forged of guitar, drums, keyboard, and the voice of heaven itself.”” - Bryan Butterfield

“I'm not kidding when I say that they are one of the best local bands I've seen in awhile. They have an indie contemporary vibe and they describe themselves as "Painters of audible thoughts". This is no exaggeration. Lead singer Paul Muuse has real talent and it shows. His vocals are well balanced and his range is impressive. It's a voice that would sound nice in a recording studio or on stage, both crucial aspects of the music industry. On top of that, he adds in continuous guitar licks and keyboard styles that create a unique sound. Mark Muuse was enjoyable on the drums. His use of personal style in the middle of seemingly relaxed songs brought things in motion. And Matthew Muuse on bass was full of life and fun to watch. It's clear that all these guys are very talented gentlemen.” - Chelsi Archibald

I have noted it in previous CWMA writing, but it’s worth mentioning again that Grey Fiction, the three-piece brothers band, drove from California in the middle of their first out-of-state tour on their day off to play this showcase. It's significant in that that excitement was easy to spot as they hammered out nearly 10 songs in 45 minutes, after driving 10 or so hours. As the Muusse brothers began their set, it was quickly apparent why and how they took home Velour’s winter Battle of the Bands a few months back: With a knack for engaging guitar leads backed by a jazzy rhythm section, they unfold quality jazzy-jam-rock tunes with fervor and grace (listen to “Warm Roses”). They played several tracks from the rough-around-the-edges The Light of the Sea EP. But, actually, I don’t think any of the bands on tonight’s line-up are well represented on their DIY recorded-in-home-studios albums: To see these bands live is to hear them at their best. - Austen Diamond

"Grey Fiction-An extraordinary mixture of styles to create music that is a cross between Moody Blues soulful sound, Tears for Fears lyrical honesty and their own style of vulnerability. Grey Fiction's original music is something you will listen to over and over as you fall into a comfortable abyss where you are one with the artist, as if they were speaking directly to you." - Julia Hollingsworth

“Grey Fiction plays an incredible combination of ’90s alternative rock and experimental shoegaze set to Paul Muusse’s unique, sometimes wailing vocals that reminded me, at times, of fellow Salt Lake City musician Boots to the Moon. Combined with the lights, the fog and a slowed-down, beautiful acoustic song, the entire performance was epic. As the night went on and each band took the stage, I couldn’t help but compare each act to the first. It came down to just two bands for me, but I went with my gut feeling and decided on Grey Fiction. I was surprisingly nervous as Velour spokesperson Kaneischa Johnson walked onto the stage with the results. As she announced the winner and I heard Grey Fiction’s name, a strange “Wahoo!” escaped my mouth. The room exploded with applause and the band went onstage to claim their prize.” - Spencer Flanagan