These Are the Top Artists to See at the 2025 Underground Music Showcase

This year's Underground Music Showcase is poised to be particularly nostalgic. The festival, which was started as a DIY effort by Denver Post journalists in 2001, isn't just celebrating its 25th year — it will be taking its final bow.

On July 1, organizers announced that this would be the event's last year "in its current form," citing rising production costs and low ticket sales. While canceling the event was on the table, the decision was made to go out with a flourish.

UMS 2025 boasts an impressive lineup, with several national bands and headliners that include All Them Witches. But in this guide, we're holding to the original spirit of the fest by focusing on top local acts to see, providing a few options for timeslots on each day. And as if the hundreds of bands on the UMS lineup aren't enough to keep you busy, local agency Future Garden will be hosting free DIY shows in the area on Friday and Saturday; keep an eye out for flyers on Broadway to uncover the secret location.

So prepare to discover as many bands as you possibly can while running up and down Broadway, visiting independent venues and making memories with friends old and new. This is the last one — for now, at least — so let's do it big.

Time to start planning!

UMS Must-See Bands Friday, July 25

The Losers Club
4:20 to 5 p.m., Showcase Stage
Love pop punk? Then head to the Losers Club. Check out the band's latest album release, Not So Silent (Live at the Ogden Theatre), for an idea of its live sound.
Barbara
4:30 to 5:15 p.m., Get Loud Stage
Barbara is one of our favorite indie bands in Denver right now, with a soothing yet heavy sound. The band's most recent album, SO THIS IS LIVING, has been on constant rotation in our playlists since it was released in April. If you miss out on this show, be sure to catch Barbara on Saturday at the hi-dive at midnight to close out night two.
MF Ruckus
5 to 5:40 p.m., Illegal Pete's
MF Ruckus puts on a show that lives up to the band's moniker. Come prepared to mosh and headbang to this supergroup of longtime Denver musicians who rile up audiences with supercharged prog rock.
DOGTAGS
5:35 to 6:20 p.m., Get Loud Stage
DOGTAGS is featured on our cover this week as one of the top bands to see at UMS. The group has been making waves with its unique sound that it calls "art soul," weaving bossa nova and Latin rhythms with soul, funk and more. Be sure to listen to the band's debut album, ROSEWORLD, before the show; if you can't catch the band on Friday, it will be at the Get Loud Stage again on Sunday from 2 to 4 p.m.
Fresh Fruit!
6 to 6:40 p.m., Skylark Lounge
Fresh Fruit! says it is entering its "post-apocalyptic era," moving into heavier topics and sonics. But it describes its sound even better than that with this question: "What if Marvin Gaye played more guitar and made music in the midst of a nuclear fallout?" Count us in.
Capture This
7 to 7:40 p.m., Banded Oak
Pop-punk group Capture This serves Paramore vibes, delivering nostalgia and rebellion at each live show. The band really began to captivate fans with its 2024 single "Halothane Dreams," which won KTCL 93.3's Hometown for the Holidays competition.
Jaiel
7 to 7:40 p.m., hi-dive
Aurora singer-songwriter Jaiel delivers such powerful vocals, you'll never forget the moment you first saw her. If you're looking for a blend of R&B, pop and soul, hit up the hi-dive for her set.
Heather Hunt
7 to 7:40 p.m., Hornet
Heather Hunt is an artist on the rise in Denver, serving up jazzy, R&B-infused ballads that are powered up by her unforgettable vocals. You'll hear a range of genres in her sound, but it all comes together in a way unique to her.
Monica The Great
8 to 8:40 p.m., hi-dive
We're kinda obsessed with Monica The Great right now. With impeccable bars and vocals, she's making a name for herself in the hip-hop scene with addictive tunes that are impossible not to dance to. See for yourself at hi-dive.
Nina de Freitas
8 to 8:40 p.m., Baer Brewing
Nina de Freitas is one of the city's most cherished singer-songwriters. If you want to be moved by poignant lyricism, heavenly vocals and evocative melodies, catch her set at Baer on Friday or at Sportique on Saturday from 7 to 7:40 p.m.
Telly
9 to 9:40 p.m., Bar 404
We consider Telly one of the top Denver hip-hop artists. Taking pieces of reggaeton, modern trap and her own pop flair, Telly moves quickly through each narrative with effortless switches between English and Spanish. Repping both the LGBTQ+ and Latin communities, this is an artist you won't want to miss.
Big Pinch
9 to 9:40 p.m., Banded Oak
The rock band Big Pinch formed while the members were students at the University of Colorado Boulder, and created a following through impressive shows at the Fox Theatre. Indie rock blends with jammy sonics to create a unique style that's best witnessed live.
RO$$AY
10 to 10:40 p.m., Bar 404
As we know from last year's UMS, RO$$AY puts on a show you don't want to miss. Another one of Denver's top rappers, RO$$AY received a Best of Denver award this year for Best Revolutionary Rap Album for Mo' Green Less Blues?, in which the artist shares conscious musings over jazzy, addictive beats.
Tarantula Bill
10 to 10:40 p.m., Hornet
Tarantula Bill makes psychedelic indie rock that veers into mystical shoegaze territory, concocting a sound unique to the band that's gripping Denver audiences. The talented roster of musicians can really jam, too, with each instrument shining over improvisational moments that entrance listeners.
Ipecac
10 to 10:40 p.m., HQ
If you love some heavy rock and roll, look no further than Ipecac. This is one of the best rock bands in Denver, known for raucous live shows driven by Ariadnee Ziady's shredding guitar and Isabella Osborne's powerful vocals.
Katrina Leibee
10 to 10:40 p.m., Skylark Lounge
Katrina Leibee isn't just Westword's social media editor, she's an excellent singer-songwriter whose emotive, relatable lyrics capture both love and heartbreak, wrapped in catchy yet poignant tunes. See her perform songs from her upcoming EP, heavy on my heart, before it releases later this year.
Slow Caves
11 to 11:40 p.m., hi-dive
Denver has been embracing the indie rock of Slow Caves for years, and the band is returning to UMS as a legacy act for the 25th anniversary. Its latest EP, Tension, builds on the anthemic, poppy sound Slow Caves has become known for, at once soothing and heavy. Expect a packed house at this one.
Rugburn
11 to 11:40 p.m., Hornet
Rugburn is one of our favorite local rock bands, with a heavy sound that's gritty, grungy and everything you could want from some fuzzed-out, proggy rock and roll. The members have a great stage presence, too, but you'll probably be too busy headbanging to notice.
Horse Bitch
Midnight to 12:40, HQ
Another favorite in the scene, Horse Bitch has an indefinable sound and wild stage presence that entertains as much as its music. And the audience always gets in on the fun, crowd-surfing, moshing and letting it all out. With lyrics that can be hilarious and poignant as well as unparalleled performances across town, this band always makes an impact. And honestly, if Horse Bitch doesn't impress you, then you're the problem.
May Be Fern
Midnight to 12:40 p.m., Skylark Lounge
May Be Fern is another one of the top bands in Denver at the moment, establishing a rep for its fantastic funk rock at shows around the city, including a residency at Bar 404. Each member truly shines in this crew, which somehow seems to level up with every single jam.
Colfax Speed Queen
Midnight to 12:40, hi-dive
It's going to be hard to decide on which band to close out your Friday, but Colfax Speed Queen at hi-dive is an annual tradition and always a good bet (get to the venue early). The rock group is a legacy act and Best of Denver award winner many times over, making its name for high-energy shows that have been a staple at the festival for years.

UMS Must-See Acts Saturday, July 26

Old Man Saxon
2:45 to 3:30 p.m., Showcase Stage
Old Man Saxon is one of Denver's most successful rappers; you'll probably recognize him from his hits "Hell Yeah," "The Perils" and so many more. We can't think of a better way to kick off Saturday.
Malcolm Whyz3
4 to 4:40 p.m., HQ
Malcolm Whyz3 is another of the city's best hip-hop artists. As he raps in his song "THE BOX": "It was all a dream / I used to read the Westword magazine / Now I got my face in that thing." Read more about this stellar artist ahead of his show.
Halle Tomlinson
4 to 4:40 p.m., Skylark Lounge
Boulder singer-songwriter Halle Tomlinson wins over fans from around the U.S. with her smooth, emotive vocals that wash over you like the shower you're going to need after a night at UMS. A contestant on The Voice, she's become known for her soulful stylings that draw on R&B, jazz and pop.
Corsicana
5 to 5:40 p.m., hi-dive
Corsicana will provide just the breather you'll need after an afternoon of dancing. This act makes award-winning, dreamy shoegaze that has us hypnotized through the speakers, but it's even better live.
Chris Cart3r
5 to 5:40 p.m., Skylark Lounge
Chris Cart3r is a rapper and singer who draws listeners in with relatable, sometimes heavy lyrics that hook you in over danceable beats. His vocal flair is undeniable; we see him really going places.
HOME
5 to 5:40 p.m., HQ
HOME is capturing the hearts of all R&B lovers in Denver. If you're in the mood for a flow of impeccable vocals and swaying beats that keep you moving, be sure to see this artist on the rise.
Velvet Daydream
5 to 5:40 p.m., Illegal Pete's
Yes, we're still at 5 p.m. But we couldn't forget Velvet Daydream — who could? The band is reviving classic rock in the modern day, from the Led Zeppelin-reminiscent sound all the way to the members' bellbottoms. If you love listening to rock from the '60s and '70s, this should be the stop for you.
Nelo
6 to 6:40 p.m., Skylark Lounge
If you're looking to get hyped up, head to Nelo. This rapper won Best Hip-Hop Artist in 2023's Best of Denver, and this year he got Best Hip-Hop Album for the must-listen Born Yesterday. He delivers a set of hit after hit that will have you putting him on your playlists right after you see him (we know from experience).
Rebecca Hartt
6 to 6:40 p.m., Sportique
It's hard to put into words how much we love Rebecca Hartt's soulful, compelling voice. Earning a Best of Denver award this year for Best R&B Debut after the release of her EP, 5, Hartt's mellifluous melodies stick with you long after listening.
Trayce Chapman
6 to 6:40 p.m., Backyard Stage
Trayce Chapman has garnered millions of streams as well as awards for his tantalizing lyrical hooks and conscious hip-hop. The rapper blends multiple genres into a unique sound that underscores his power as a wordsmith. He's opened for the likes of Wale, DaBaby and Earthgang, and we see his star rising high.
Jesus Christ Taxi Driver
7 to 7:40 p.m., Banded Oak
Jesus Christ Taxi Driver's album Lick My Soul is a must-listen, and this band is one of the absolute must-sees of the festival. The group always puts on an energetic show that pulls you in through bluesy rock and roll with beats to kill.
YasmineEmani
8 to 8:40 p.m., HQ
It's time to introduce yourself to the pure beauty of YasmineEmani's vocals. The genre-blending R&B artist has made a name for herself in the scene through local shows and open mics at the Meadowlark, and we can't wait to see her take the stage at HQ. Familiarize yourself with such standout tracks as "Go Crazy" and "Across the Room" ahead of time — you'll fall in love with the music before you even hear it live.

E.M.E.
8 to 8:40 p.m., Skylark Lounge
E.M.E released the album of the summer this year with Foreigner, an eighteen-track ode to ancestry, family, faith and more, all packaged in an addicting brew of Afrofusion. Expect a standout performance at this show, which will undoubtedly uplift and inspire.
iZCALLi
8 to 8:40 p.m., Backyard Stage
Don't miss out on dancing your ass off to legacy act iZCALLi, which has been a life-affirming presence on the Denver scene since 2005. The band describes its sound best as a "vibrant fusion, blending Latin echoes with fuzz rock riffs, igniting a rebellious spirit in both English and Español."
Cobranoid
9 to 9:40 p.m., Banded Oak
Cobranoid does what it wants, when it wants. The trio calls its sound "Denver metal speed doom," which it's been performing around town since forming in 2021. This will no doubt be one of the top shows of the fest; drink up the sonic venom and try not to get too bloodied.
Schama Noel
9 to 9:40 p.m., Sportique
Schama Noel is making waves. The Denver rapper has garnered hundreds of thousands of streams for his unique, rapid bars that showcase internal rhymes covering topics from consciousness to cougars.
Rootbeer Richie & the Reveille
9 to 9:45 p.m., Backyard Stage
We advise you to stretch before Rootbeer Richie & the Reveille; this band will have you moving and grooving throughout its entire set. With a Cajun-infused, classic-rock sound, the group has made waves in Colorado and beyond for its soul-stirring, anthemic songs and high-energy performances. DNA Picasso
10 to 10:40 p.m., HQ
DNA Picasso is always raising the bar. He's not just an exceptional rapper, but a strong voice for the community through his nonprofit Colorado Music Industry Alliance. His set at UMS last year was one of our favorites by far, and we can't wait to see him fill HQ for an unforgettable party that showcases collaborative and influential artistry.
Clementine
10 to 10:40 p.m., Skylark Lounge
Clementine brings on the nostalgia with a sound reminiscent of 2000s indie bands. If you close your eyes, you may be transported to an Urban Outfitters circa 2011. But you'll likely be too busy dancing to do that; this band completely engages audiences with high-energy sets that leave you begging for more.
TheyCallHimAP
11 to 11:40 p.m., HQ
Denver rapper TheyCallHimAP always brings compelling rhymes that have you reflecting on life, society and our roles in it all. His music is soul-gripping and people have been paying attention — just check the one-million-plus streams on the track "Still, Pt. 2" alone.
Kaitlyn Williams
11 to 11:40 p.m., Skylark Lounge
Kaitlyn Williams makes delightful, genre-blending pop that's made her a force in the scene since her debut album, Sunset, dropped in 2019. Her latest single, "Therapy," is a relatable bop we've had on repeat, and we're still grooving to her debut 2018 single, "Rain."
Boot Gun
Midnight to 12:40 a.m., Skylark Lounge
Boot Gun won a Best of Denver award this year for Best Band for Shaking Your Booty. So what are you waiting for? Wear your favorite assless chaps and shake it out at a show of pure rock and roll. Boot Gun is a favorite on the scene for a reason.
Barbara
Midnight to 12:40 a.m., hi-dive
If you missed Barbara on Friday, we highly recommend this group to close out Saturday if you're looking for a dreamy, blissed-out show that also pulls from a deep well of heaviness.

UMS Must-See Acts Sunday, July 27

Cheap Perfume
2:40 to 3:25 p.m., Showcase Stage
Start your day off by smashing the patriarchy with legacy act Cheap Perfume, a riot grrrl punk crew that knows how to throw down. From "Slut Game Strong" to "It's Okay (to Punch Nazis)" and "Woke Mind Virus," the band's songs are made to scream along to while raging at the state of society.  The Velveteers
3:40 to 4:35 p.m., Showcase Stage
The Velveteers is a top Colorado rock band, making national waves by opening for the likes of Guns 'N Roses, Greta Van Fleet and Smashing Pumpkins. Its sound is pure, authentic rock and roll, but also unique to the trio, which comprises Demi Demitro on guitar and vocals and two — yes, two — drummers, Baby Pottersmith and Jonny Fig.
Sunstoney
4 to 4:40 p.m., hi-dive
Sunstoney is a breakout indie artist on the scene, creating dreamy indie pop with a talented backing band of Kathryn Fernandez on bass and Susan Lucia on drums. You'll be dancing to an endless stream of grooves at this show, and Sunstoney knows how to engage an audience, often sharing stories behind the songs.
Los Mocochetes
4:20 to 5:05 p.m., Get Loud Stage
A UMS legacy act, Los Mocochetes makes funky psychedelic rock that's a hit year after year. The band has won several Best of Denver awards for the activism espoused through its music. Life-affirming and enlivening, Los Mocochetes is one of our favorite acts to see at the festival.
Anthony Ruptak
5 to 5:40 p.m., Bar 404
Anthony Ruptak makes soul-shaking, soaring, folk-imbued indie tunes that we can't wait to see live. Taking influence from such bands as Death Cab for Cutie and Broken Social Scene, his emotive voice is both delicate and powerful, laying out pensive lyrics that cover the complexities of life in beautiful writing. This Denver artist is one you'll want to keep track of.
The Frickashinas
5 to 5:40 p.m., HQ
The punk band Frickashinas formed during the pandemic from a crew of longtime Denver musicians and released its excellent debut album, Thanks for the Invite, in 2023. The band's become known for its rowdy shows and a fast-paced, anthemic sound that keeps audiences headbanging.
Pleasure Prince
6 to 6:40 p.m., Skylark Lounge
Enjoy a shower of synths at Pleasure Prince. The duo makes you feel as if you're at the Roadhouse in Twin Peaks, enjoying a soothing yet heavy display of sonics while misty mountains surround you outside. It's a hypnotic sound that rises and falls in an impressive, one-of-a-kind display of artistry you won't find anywhere else.
Venus Cruz & Super Distant Boyfriend
6 to 6:40 p.m.
Venus Cruz is one of the top neo-soul vocalists in Denver. She's been a constant on the jazz scene, performing at venues such as Herb's and Dazzle with backing band Super Distant Boyfriend. Her voice is one to remember, echoing with power and soul. Don't miss out. C Slim and Snubluck (Wes Watkins)
7 to 7:40 p.m., HQ
Trumpeter Wes Watkins has performed with Nathaniel Rateliff & the Night Sweats, Air Dubai, Wheelchair Sports Camp and so much more, and you can catch his latest project, C. Slim and Snubluck, at HQ. This is sure to be a unique show from one of Denver's most talented independent artists. DeVotchKa
7:50 to 9 p.m., Showcase Stage
DeVotchKa is one of the best-known bands from Denver, breaking out after providing the score to Little Miss Sunshine. Praised by outlets from The New Yorker to Rolling Stone, DeVotchKa is the perfect headliner for this year's nostalgic UMS — the band performed at the early iterations of the festival. The set will be followed by a UMS send-off ceremony.
Bluebook
8 to 8:40 p.m., hi-dive
Bluebook is another must-see legacy act that's been cherished in Colorado for decades. Julie Davis started the project in the early 2000s, and lately brought more musicians into the fold to expand an already potent sound. The music is haunting and ethereal, with Bluebook setting off on an otherworldly voyage at each concert.
The Milk Blossoms
9 to 9:40 p.m., Skylark Lounge
The Milk Blossoms is another Denver staple that we've described as making "soul-gutting experimental pop." This Best of Denver award-winning band weaves melodies that entrance and isn't afraid to rock out, either. Led by Harmony Rose on vocals and ukulele, the Milk Blossoms' lyrics and sound wraps you in a comforting embrace. It's a magic touch, and best experienced live.
SPELLS
9 to 9:40 p.m.,  hi-dive
Rock out to longtime Denver band SPELLS, an energetic punk outfit that formed in 2013. From powerful blasts of drums and thumping bass to shredding guitar, the spirit of rebellion is high at this band's sets. Close out UMS with a bang at this show, which will have the crowd jumping, moshing and completely captivated, as we saw at the Bluebird earlier this year.
Dressy Bessy
10 to 10:40 p.m., hi-dive
Dressy Bessy is a Denver classic, having formed in 1997; it was associated with the Elephant 6 Recording Co, which included Neutral Milk Hotel and the Apples in Stereo. Tammy Ealom is a force, and to see this iconic band at the hi-dive is a true gift. This show is sure to be packed, so get there early or you're going to miss out.
Dragondeer
10 to 10:40 p.m., Bar 404
Dragondeer blends psych-rock, funk, jam, blues, soul and more into a memorable brew of music that's built a major fan base since the act formed a little over a decade ago. It's a total groove live, established from countless shows throughout the years at such venues as Cervantes'. It's jazzy, improvisational jams always blow us away.
Kid Astronaut
10 to 10:40 p.m., Skylark Lounge
Kid Astronaut has a unique sound, leaning into extraterrestrial themes and pushing the boundaries of R&B and hip-hop with futuristic sonics that tap into jazzy funk and soul. His music is a favorite on our playlists, particularly his Best of Denver award-winning album, FUTURE/MEMORIES, and his shows are entirely enigmatic. If you want to end your UMS with a straight-up party, this is the move.

See the entire UMS schedule at undergroundmusicshowcase.com.