By: Marisa Sanchez
The music scene in New York City is one of the most vibrant and diverse in the world, shaped by its rich cultural history, diverse population, and constant influx of talent from around the globe. From jazz clubs in Harlem to underground punk venues in the East Village, from world-renowned concert halls like Carnegie Hall and Lincoln Center to intimate indie rock bars in Brooklyn, New York offers a musical experience to suit every taste.
One of the defining features of the New York music scene is its incredible diversity. You can find virtually every genre represented here, from classical and jazz to hip-hop, electronic, punk, indie rock, and everything in between. This diversity is a reflection of the city itself, which has long been a melting pot of cultures and influences.
It is in this melting pot where Mexican heavy metal guitarist Erick Garcia will one day be. Erick is part of the band Nox Sinister, with whom he has been touring Europe. Only a few months after Garcia joined the band, they embarked on their first European tour, during which they played in more than 20 shows in 30 days in countries such as Germany, Hungary, Czech Republic, France, Switzerland, and others, an experience Erick recalls as “a pivotal moment for us as a band. We gained invaluable experience from that trip.”
It was during the global pandemic of 2020 when Erick Garcia joined Nox Sinister. This pandemic forced musicians around the world to adapt and innovate, and Garcia was no exception. During this time, he expanded his online presence, collaborating with musicians from diverse backgrounds and forging connections that would ultimately lead him to Nox Sinister. “It was during this time that I met Nathan Shapiro (from Nox Sinister) online, who asked me to join the band,” Garcia recalls. “They had some songs written and previously recorded, and it felt like the perfect fit.”
Erick and his band recently performed in California at Bobby Vs Cocktails in Anaheim and at Stages in Santa Ana, and Garcia has been touring not only Europe but also the United States with another band he collaborates with called To Us Below, with whom he played at the renowned metal festival Inkcarceration Fest in Ohio and Higher Ground in Vermont. But while Garcia’s musical journey has taken him across the globe, there is one city that holds a special allure: New York. “I have always dreamed of performing in New York,” Garcia admits. “It is such an iconic city with a rich musical history. I would love to play at venues like Madison Square Garden or Radio City Music Hall someday.” The 25-year-old guitar player says that “we have been talking with other bands, some from NY, and we are going to try to put together some shows if possible but nothing confirmed yet.”
Garcia remains focused on exploring new creative avenues. “With Nox Sinister, we’re constantly writing new material and planning our next moves,” he says. “We’re always looking for ways to push ourselves and evolve as musicians.” Nox Sinister recorded the new album “Knight Terrors,” which was released in October 2023 along with the single and music video for the song “Crimson Mirror”. The music for the album was mainly written by Erick. Reflecting on the process, Garcia says, “We’re incredibly proud of the final product. It’s been amazing to see the response it’s received.” They are currently writing new material and planning their next music video for the song “Bear-Hammer” from their latest album.
Look forward to seeing Erick Garcia soon delighting New Yorkers with his music.
Don’t miss anything about his new shows and releases and follow him on Instagram @epickgarcia
Published By: Aize Perez
