Pelvis Wrestley began in the Fall of 2018 and set out to adapt Benjamin Violet’s synth pop background with the country music format to help redefine an American identity. Garnering immediate support from the local Austin scene, they were playing packed clubs and sold out rooms by the end of their first year. A supergroup of Austin talent, Violet tapped guitarist Santiago Dietche (Daphne Tunes, Central Heat Exchange), drummer Sarah Schultz (Sun June), keyboardist Hannah McVay to start the redefinition. Restructuring due to the necessities of 2020, the ensemble added Zack Wiggs (Brody Price, The Oh Hellos) and Tommy Cook (Tombus) to their roster.

Signing to Earth Libraries, Pelvis Wrestley released their debut record, Vortexas Vorever, in the Spring of 2023. Finding its legs, the record caught the attention of baroque pop royalty, Kishi Bashi, who called it “An electronic melody coaster ride through every 80’s classic flick you missed out on. Hints of Springsteen, James Mercer, and The Cars. Best served now.” Pelvis Wrestley has begun production on their second record, expanding on the electronic americana palette that marked their beginning. The follow-up is expected in early 2024.

Pelvis Wrestley wants an America that is defined by the specific Americans that make America, America. In the words of front-person, Benjamin Violet:

“I started Pelvis Wrestley with the simple concept that identity is a two-way street: you may tell from my outfit that I am a cowboi, but the fact that I am a cowboi changes what cowbois are. I can tell from your last name that you are a Smith, but the fact that you are a Smith changes who the Smiths are. I can tell from your flag that you are American, but the fact that you are American changes what America is.

The work of Pelvis Wrestley is to alter identity markers by claiming and participating in them in order to subvert their direction and meaning in the larger world. It is to make American art, queer art, and art that offers opportunities for expanding the ways we think of ourselves as part of our communities and world.”