Austin-based Artist Rett Smith on Fusing Americana and Shoegaze, Southwestern Style, and Finding Inspiration in the Heart of Texas
As he prepares for the release of his upcoming album, Smith shares how his West Texas roots, Austin’s creative energy, and personal style come together in his latest project
Austin-based artist Rett Smith is set to release of his fifth solo album, “A Weighted Remorse,” on September 13 through Imperial/Republic Records. Merging the raw emotion of Americana blues with the dreamy, atmospheric sounds of shoegaze, his latest album showcases distinctive guitar riffs and deeply reflective lyrics, offering listeners an intimate glimpse into his artistic journey. For this project, he collaborated with Grammy-winning producer Peter Labberton and Grammy-nominated engineer David Kutch.
Smith will perform a free in-store set and record signing at Waterloo Records on September 12. He will then host an album release show at The Mohawk on September 14.
We sat down with Smith to discuss how Austin has influenced his music, the inspirations behind his distinct style, and his favorite local spots.
What are your go-to spots in Austin to decompress before or after a show?
“I’m usually trying to hang with my partner or a tight knit group of friends in a low stress environment. I view it similar to a pre-game routine where I don’t want to overthink the night but I do have to be prepared and ready to give it my all. I love the nervous energy of anticipation to then execute the most honest version of the show. I enjoy knowing that something is about to go down.”
How would you describe your personal style? Are there any Austin shops where you find inspiration?
“My personal style is heavily rooted in the classic southwestern aesthetic—not to be confused with the cowboy cosplay that’s a bit too prominent for my liking. My dad’s side of the family are all cowboys and cowgirls from West Texas so that aesthetic has always been at the forefront of what’s cool to me. I believe the best dressed dudes are usually in a “uniform” of their own, whether it’s denim and a pearl snap, a suit, etc. I try to follow that ethos for what the season is.
Locally, STAG is great along with Imogene + Willie. Always killer finds at both. My favorite spot is my friend Ryan’s company, Trovador. He makes insanely cool hats that are all one of a kind and his work space/store is amazing. I’m incredibly honored to have recently had one made by him personally!”
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Are there any hidden gems in Austin that you think everyone should know about—whether for music, food, or even fashion?
“There are so many great spots in this city but some current favorites are:
- Holiday on 7th – Great for both food and cocktails. They run an all-day martini “happy hour” on Sundays, although you can find us there most nights.
- Kitty Cohen’s – Perfect for weekend day hangs! I know it’s been a staple for a while but one of my oldest friends Dustin is now involved, and the food popups have been insane. We go when we are feeling like catching a good daytime buzz that often turns into an all-evening affair!
- Trovador – A must for one-of-a-kind lids.”
With “A Weighted Remorse” about to drop, how have your experiences in Austin and on the road shaped this album?
“It’s been so incredible to be back in Austin and the roll out of this album has really been a wild ride! I’ve released 5 albums and EP’s since the pandemic so the whirlwind of creativity has definitely been driven in part by my experiences and the people here. Austin is certainly an easy place to find your own adventure, for better or worse!
Interestingly enough, I made this album alone in our tiny studio in South Austin and we’ve been able to watch it grow into something really special. To be embraced by the city in this way has been incredible and honestly means the world to me.”
Smith’s new album “A Weighted Remorse” will be released on Sept. 13. Watch his in-store performance at Waterloo Records on September 12 and at The Mohawk on Sept. 14.
