A new musical ensemble, Council Hill, is set to debut their unique blend of “dad rock” at Dewain’s Place on Friday, January 17th. The band, comprising local musicians Kyler Smith and The Sunday Sinners, will take the stage at 8:30 p.m., bringing a fresh twist to a nostalgic genre. Formed in April 2024, Council Hill features artists Newt Farris, Sam Cox, Ethan Adams, and Patrick Butcher, each with diverse musical backgrounds ranging from Christian rock to metal. The group has emerged from a rich history of collaboration and touring, aiming to captivate audiences with music that resonates across generations.

The formation of Council Hill was not an overnight decision. According to Farris, the idea had been brewing for years before the band officially came together. Initially, it was more of a casual project, but as other touring commitments slowed down in mid-2024, the members decided to give this new venture a serious try. Prior to Council Hill, Farris, Cox, and Adams were heavily involved in touring with another local artist, Autumn Ragland. Meanwhile, Adams also played drums for Wesetta Switch and The Weathered Souls, while Butcher and Cox shared a musical history dating back to their high school days when they were part of a band called The Composition.

One of the defining characteristics of Council Hill is their embrace of what has come to be known as “dad rock.” This term, which has evolved over time, now refers to the rock music that dominated radio airwaves in the 2000s. For the band members, this genre holds personal significance, as it was the soundtrack to their formative years—when they were being driven to school by parents who listened to bands like Nickelback, Creed, Hinder, and 3 Doors Down. As Cox explains, the term has shifted from referring to the classic rock of the '80s and '90s to encompass the music that shaped the early 2000s.

For these musicians, performing has always been a lifelong aspiration. “It’s really all that any of us ever wanted to do,” says Adams, reflecting on the band's shared passion. They began their musical journeys in garages and school bands, dedicating most of their lives to perfecting their craft. Now, with Council Hill, they are ready to share their sound with a wider audience. Following their performance at Dewain’s Place, the band plans to embark on a mini-tour, with stops in Dallas and Hays, Kansas. More shows are expected to be announced later this year, promising fans more opportunities to experience their music live.

Beyond the nostalgia, Council Hill aims to connect with listeners through music that feels both familiar and fresh. By blending their varied influences, they hope to create a sound that appeals to multiple generations. As they prepare for their upcoming performances, the band is excited to share their journey with audiences who may find themselves reliving memories or discovering something new in the process.