By:Vanessa Garza

Change for the Better.
Band: Vatican Beach
Hometown: Harlingen

Members: Sergio Lopez, 21, vocals, guitar, and keyboard
Ruben Lopez, 20, drums
John Morales, 19, bass
Genre: Indie Rock
Contact: facebook.com/vaticanbeach
What’s Happening?: Solid bass lines, ecstatic drumming, fun guitar riffs and a voice to match aren’t the only things going for Vatican Beach. Fresh off a winter Texas tour, this three-piece ensemble, formally known as Moi Je Joue, is taking off. They recorded a four-song demo with Creative Cave Studios and plan to go back in late January to record a six-song EP. The eccentric tunes this band pumps out are upbeat and ready to be danced to. With the addition of more synth and another guitarist in late January, this tripod is going to get a makeover that will make a splash in the Indie scene of South Texas.

1960s Modern Revival
Band: Jungle Bodies
Hometown: McAllen

Members: Andres Sanchez, 22, guitar/vocals
Joseph Macias, 22, guitar
Osmar Alaniz, 21, bass
Michael Flanagan, 22, drums
Genre: Surf Pop
Contact: facebook.com/junglebodies
What’s happening?: The year-old band, Jungle Bodies, is making its way in the music scene. Their modern twist to 1960s rock provides a jumpy, danceable tune with funky riffs that provides a fun atmosphere for show-goers. Made up of students from UTPA, Jungle Bodies is currently writing new material for a full-length album to possibly be released in May. They are also recording one of their new songs, “Ghost Beam,” to be accompanied by a music video shot by Cab Films. The video will be shot in February and released in late March or early April. The group will be recording a cover of the classic song “Jump Around” by House of Pain for a music blog. The song will be added into a compilation of bands to be released in May. There will be live shows throughout February and March.