The Lowtimers are a 5-piece Americana band led by songwriters Austin Smith and Mark Tegio. Formed through years of touring up and down the West Coast, the band blends soulful Americana with a contemporary twist. With their debut album Cracks, The Lowtimers offer fresh perspectives on timeless stories of love, loss, and redemption. The band includes Smith (guitar, vocals, harmonica), Tegio (guitar, vocals), Kelso (drums), Dreher (bass, harmonies), and Vermeesch (pedal steel).
On their latest track, “Flesh and Bone,” The Lowtimers stick true to the title while exploring the nuances of their approach. The raw and emotionally palpable single is pure folk-rock at its finest. A subtle twang echoes over the charming vocal performance as a simplistic arrangement makes room for the poetic songwriting. The lyrics explore the moment our weaknesses prevail against our attempts at stoicism, a crack in the armor of our inner emotional being. “I was made of rubber, now I’m sure that I am made of bone,” croons guitarist Tegio, who singles lead on this single, upon pressing play, preparing the listener for a moment of needed vulnerability. “Flesh and Bone” feels like a conversation you pass while walking down the street, except everyone and anyone is welcome to join the deep discussion. The Lowtimers welcome the listener in with infectious melodies and minimalistic musicianship as they detail a refreshing yet scary reminder that everyone is susceptible to heartbreak.
“I think when most people are kids, they think they’re invincible. They’re not worried about getting hurt or the consequences of their actions; at least, I know I wasn’t,” explains Tegio. “To me, ‘Flesh and Bone’ is about getting older and coming to terms with my own limitations and mortality even. Heavy topics set to a fun little melody and rhythm to balance it out.”
