Austin songwriter and multi-instrumentalist Paul Banks has performed on some of the most and least reputable stages his hometown has to offer: from dive bars like the Carousel Lounge on east 52nd to headliner sets in the heart of the city at Stubb's BBQ and Emo's. On any given night, Banks might be found sitting in on guitar at Hole in the Wall with alter-ego country band Dollar Dan and the Change, or playing an all-Motown set at Ego's on South Congress. This summer, Banks lent his vocals to the new album from Austin indie rock heroes ...And You Will Know Us By the Trail of Dead. But it's Banks' own work and band that are building a fanbase far beyond Austin.

Banks formed The Carousels shortly after recording his debut album at The Castle Recording Studio in Nashville (with the help of producer Justin Tam and a talented crew of Nashville musicians). While awaiting its release, Paul began playing solo sets and added Hunter Dryden on guitar. After a string of successful duo shows, Banks and Dryden experimented with a slew of drummers and five or six bassists before finding the right sound with Jon Nesvadba (bass, guitar and vocals) and James Summers (drums and vocals). The four hit the road last December on a three week tour, playing house parties in Nashville, radio shows in the Appalachians and bars in New York City, D.C. and Baltimore.

Banks' songwriting reflects the man he is: A dude from Austin with a ridiculous vinyl collection, a sensitive ear for melody, and an upbringing enriched with French horns and choirs. His songs run the gamut of 20th century popular music, invoking memories of Cole Porter, Roy Orbison and Hank Williams, introducing them to the Beatles and Stevie Wonder, and incorporating modern work from Ron Sexsmith, Elliott Smith and Radiohead. His unique vocal performances have earned rave reviews from critics and fans.