Emerging from the New Orleans underground, the four-piece “glitter grunge” group Swinging Astrid is currently making waves in the Gulf South alternative scene. Composed of drummer Rob Florence (he/him), lead guitarist Jess Araten (she/her), bassist Clover (she/they), and lead vocalist/rhythm guitarist Madeline Usher (she/they), the band fuses grunge, shoegaze, and alternative rock into something that’s equal parts volcanic, tender, and visceral.

Initially formed in early 2023 after Clover spotted Usher’s ad for bandmates in a local café, the group went through a few lineup changes before finding its core members. After scouting Araten playing in a local production of Hedwig & The Angry Inch and Usher recruiting their longtime schoolmate Florence to drum, Swinging Astrid’s final lineup was solidified in 2024. 

Following a 2025 regional tour and steadily growing local presence, Swinging Astrid is set to release their debut single, “Tiny (On the Inside),” in January 2026. Known for their immersive live shows that balance intensity with intimacy, the group draws influence from iconic 90s acts like The Smashing Pumpkins and Veruca Salt, while simultaneously blending the punchiness of Paramore and modern innovators like Momma, creating music that is both danceable yet emotionally resonant.