Bold and unapologetic art-rockers Exotic Fruitica formed in Austin, TX in 2022 by guitarist/vocalist Jon French and Drummer Aaron Gilligan, two lifelong friends. French and Gilligan waited nearly thirteen years to collaborate again, since their first indie rock project in Seattle in 2009. Gilligan, a citizen of New Zealand applied for the green card lottery twelve times before finally winning his ticket to the US of A. In August of 2021, during the height of the COVID-19 pandemic, Gilligan permanently relocated to Texas and the band has since expanded to include Charlie Cruz, Carson Caldwell, and Reid Haynei. Influenced heavily by the revival of early 90s post-hardcore, attributed to bands like Metz, and modern day post-punkers Idles, Viagra Boys and Crows, this Texas punk outfit is harnessing their own explosive sound with an unhinged vocal style, absurd lyrics, and violent drums that are propelled by pitch bending guitars that stab and pulse against the beating kick drum. Exotic Fruitica creates music for those looking for unpredictability, as their live shows rattle concertgoers into a raw freneticism and enthrallment.