Have you heard of them? Underground Music Showcase has big names, local bands

DENVER (KDVR) — It is said that music is the universal language as it transcends all logic and makes people wiggle and feel for reasons that can't always be understood. Music lovers are always on the lookout for the newest song that tickles their brain just right.

For its 25th year, the Underground Music Showcase will give talented artists seeking their big break a chance to take the stage in front of the Denver community. Attendees will see a lot of bands they may not have heard of, but there are also big names to look forward to, some with listener numbers exceeding three million on Spotify.

Do you know the bands on the Underground Music Showcase lineup?

The 25th anniversary promises to be one of the biggest showcases yet, honoring the legacy of bands who have been involved with the showcase over the years, while new performers look to leave their mark on the Denver music scene.

This year's lineup will feature more than 200 performers who will play for thousands of attendees around the Baker neighborhood on South Broadway.

The Underground Music Showcase will be headlined by All of Them Witches from Nashville, Flyana Boss from Los Angeles and Underground Music Showcase Legacy Band DeVotchKa from Denver.

DeVotchKa has been performing since 1997 and has become synonymous with the hit movie "Little Miss Sunshine" after their music brought life to the film as if it were its own character.

Hagerman credits part of the band's success to their 2002 performance at the Underground Music Showcase.

"I remember DeVotchKa got our photo on the paper, the Denver Post, and people from all over the country saw that. It really helped promote the band,” said Hagerman.

Many bands on the lineup are local and lesser-known. Over 85% of performers are based in Colorado. From hip-hop to rock to experimental, there will be music for everyone at the showcase.

“UMS is special because lots of bands get the opportunity to play on larger stages with internationally and nationally recognized bands to both gain exposure and experience. It fosters a sense of community...I think music brings a lot of people together," said Tom Hagerman of DeVotchKa.

The festival is happening July 25-27 and tickets are available online for single days for just under $90 or weekend passes for about $150. There will be no fewer than 10 venues along South Broadway hosting the performers, which include four outdoor stages.

“While festivals in Colorado and across the country are shrinking or shutting down, UMS is growing with purpose. We’re building a festival that puts artist care, culture, and community at the center—one that supports discovery artists, makes space for everyone, and proves that doing things differently, with a strong mission, is how you not only survive, but thrive,” said UMS Co-Manager and Executive Director of Youth on Record Jami Duffy, in a press release.