semiwestern is the shoegaze/indie rock project of Texas based artist and multi-instrumentalist Ty Bohrnstedt. Started with his friend Daniel Gonzalez, their creative undertaking took root in their childhood as they crossed paths as tennis players competing in national junior tournaments around the country. They would later reunite in their early 20s and form semiwestern. Other members include longtime collaborator Jeff Morisano (kissed her little sister) and friends Chris Semmelbeck, Tom Little and Preston Smith.
With influences ranging from the visionary songcraft of Grandaddy, Pinback and R. Stevie Moore, to the moodiness and melodic brilliance of Lou Reed, Elliott Smith, Built To Spill, and Sonic Youth, semiwestern weaves a charmingly unpolished and emotive sound that is heavily informed by DIY ethos.
Despite the distance between them, with Daniel now residing in Arkansas, Jeff in Connecticut, and Ty in Texas, they overcome geographical obstacles by sharing their creative process digitally. Iterations of songs are exchanged via email, while discussions and refining of their musical vision take place over countless phone calls and ultimately recorded by Bohrnstedt in his bedroom.
Formerly known as The Vliets, semiwestern has garnered recognition in the vibrant music scene of Austin, Texas. They were once voted as the "Best Emerging Rock Band” in Austin by The Deli Magazine, and have opened for notable artists such as Ariel Pink, Alex G, DIIV, zzzahara, Elvis Depressedly, Madi Diaz and Frankie Rose.
A self titled full length album was released in September 2023 on Spirit Goth Records and new single ‘abasement tapes’ was released in 2024 on Born Losers Records.
“..sounds like if Elliott Smith made shoegaze”
- Stereogum
"semiwestern's dusty debut is a breathtaking indie rock record filled with raw reflection and intimate emotion"
- Atwood Magazine
“..consistently releasing stellar tracks that encompass a wide variety of sub-genres and influences”
- Earmilk
“..it’s easy to tell the excellent quality of Bohrnstedt’s songwriting and lovable showcasing of DIY concepts..”
-Obscure Sound
