Social Cinema is a rising indie rock band composed of members from Lincoln, NE, and Wichita, KS. Their music is fun, fast, and their concerts are unforgettable. This Midwest band is transforming their local grit into a more polished sound but keeping their hook-heavy, powerful identity.
Social Cinema was first formed in 2021, but that’s not where it all began. Before they were Social Cinema, the core members- Griffin Bush, Logan Bush, and Austin Engler- spent nearly a decade performing as “Kill Vargas”, from Wichita, KS, known for their gritty garage rock sound. But during the pandemic, the band felt that they needed to change and evolve. The band hit the reset button. Griffin Bush moved to Lincoln, NE, where they teamed up with Mari Crisler and Reed Tiwald- members of the indie punk band “Death Cow”. The addition allowed them to create a new identity. Social Cinema was born, and the chemistry was immediate.
The band blends fun guitar sequences, loud and crisp drums, and great rhythms that include vocal melodies. Their music is a mix of indie rock and power pop, having similar sounds to bands like Bleachers and Metric, but still sounding unique and like themselves. Each of their past projects has shown growth with their songwriter. Their 2023 compilation “It’s Nice to Meet You: Singles Collection” really showed how their sound has evolved across formats.
Their live shows are filled with passion and pure raw energy. Social Cinema quickly made a name for themselves locally for how fun their shows are. Just this year, Social Cinema earned a spot on the NIVA “Live List”, a list that spotlights the best up-and-coming performers in the country. Also on that list were names like Mannequin Pussy, Jessica Pratt, Wishy, The Beaches, and Doechii. They also took the stage at SXSW 2025, where they performed at the legendary Austin venue Antone’s.
Now, the band is getting ready for their most ambitious release yet. Their debut full-length album, titled “Don’t Get Lost”, is set to drop on October 2, 2025, through Midtopia Records. Their lead single, “You Want My Love,” is already generating a buzz, showcasing a new and confident sound with guitars layered through infectious rhythms. This album was recorded with producer Jeremy Wurst at B-24 Studios in Kansas City. This album will fully let everyone know how good Social Cinema is and can be.
I am from Lincoln, NE, and have seen Social Cinema live more than ten times. I was hooked on them after their very first show which I went to at Duffy’s Tavern. These shows have been some of the best I have ever been to, and if they are coming to a venue near you, you have to go and experience exactly what I’m talking about, and you’ll thank me later.
Keep Up With Social Cinema: Website | Facebook | Instagram | YouTube | Spotify
