Biography

The Last Year is a baltimore-based alternative rock band that stems from an idea of front-girl Niki Barr (vocals), and Scott Ensign (bass and synth). The pair, complemented by drummer, BJ Kerwin, and guitarist, Scott Griffith, approach their music with diverse influences, ranging from the hook heavy hits of The Cars to the spacey, hypnotic sounds of the late 80’s to early 90’s acts, like The Cure and Portishead. The band has managed to mix retro influences with modern appeal and it’s magical. Having toured over 30 countries on three continents, The Last Year is no stranger to the stage. Guided by Barr’s coy, airy, yet powerful melodies and slinky body language, blended with the band’s array of synth growls, driving rhythm and swirling guitar sounds, the show is a spectacle and a must-see. Their debut EP features lead single “Sugar”, a tune that bridges the gap between The Smiths and the infectious, radio-friendly indie rock hooks of bands like Metric; spicing it all up with female leading vocals that wouldn’t feel out of place on a Garbage record. “Sugar” was spun at more than 14 radio stations, including SiriusXM’s Alt Nation, WWDC 101, WLUM, KWSS, and WWWX. "Mania", the band's second single, entered into Top 40 songs by Double Neuve FM 99 Peru and was ranked number 20 on Top Notch's Top 25 Best Songs of 2015. Prior to the band's performance at the 2015 South by Southwest in Austin, Texas, The Last Year was named one of the "Austin 100."