Water Tower: The Genre-Defying Outlaws of Punk Rock Bluegrass

Born in 2005 from the fiery creativity of multi-instrumentalist and vocalist Kenny Feinstein, Water Tower has been tearing up the music scene with their electrifying fusion of bluegrass, old-time revival, and punk-rock grit. Formerly known as The Water Tower Bucket Boys, the band shed their old skin in 2012, rebranding as Water Tower and making the bold leap from Portland, Oregon, to the sun-soaked streets of Los Angeles, California. Since then, they’ve carved out a reputation as one of the most thrilling and innovative acts to emerge from the California bluegrass scene, amassing a fiercely loyal fanbase known as “The Owls.”

Water Tower is more than just a band—it’s a movement. Fueled by Feinstein’s masterful songwriting, a fiercely DIY ethos, and a sound that defies categorization, they’ve become a force to be reckoned with. Their music is a high-octane collision of foot-stomping bluegrass, raw punk energy, and street-smart storytelling, creating a sonic identity that’s as unpredictable as it is unforgettable.

The band’s current lineup—Kenny Feinstein, Tommy Drinkard, Taylor Estes, and Jesse Blue Eads—is a powerhouse of talent, independently managed by the unstoppable Joanne Ledesma. Together, they’ve built a reputation for their relentless work ethic, dividing their time between crafting new material, rehearsing for explosive live shows, and hitting the streets to busk at local freeway off-ramps. Yes, you read that right—these bluegrass rebels have turned busking into an art form, using the raw energy of the streets to sharpen their skills and connect with their audience on a visceral level. Songs like “AMPM” and “Skante Warrior” are born from the grit and grind of street culture, capturing the spirit of their busking adventures and turning them into anthems for the underdog.

Water Tower’s live performances are nothing short of legendary. They’ve set stages ablaze at some of the biggest bluegrass festivals in the country, including the California Bluegrass Association (CBA) Father’s Day Festival, Huck Finn Jubilee, Topanga Banjo Fiddle Festival, and Santa Cruz BrewGrass Festival. In 2024, they took the IBMA (International Bluegrass Music Association) World of Bluegrass by storm as an official showcase band, and in 2025, they’ll make their highly anticipated debut at the iconic Telluride Bluegrass Festival and are the FIRST bluegrass band to ever play the legendary Vans Warped Tour. This festival is the most coveted ticket for any punk band.

But Water Tower isn’t just a festival favorite—they’re road warriors. Since 2022, they’ve been tearing up the West Coast, and in 2023, they conquered the UK with a wildly successful tour. Along the way, they’ve shared stages with bluegrass heavyweights like The Brothers Comatose, Nick Hexum (311), Sierra Ferrell, AJ Lee & Blue Summit, Molly Tuttle, and Steve Poltz, proving that they can hold their own with the best in the business.

Kenny Feinstein has cemented himself as the ultimate festival emcee, bringing his signature charisma, wit, and infectious energy to some of the biggest stages in the bluegrass and roots music world. From the sun-soaked vibes of the Huck Finn Jubilee to the rustic charm of the Topanga Banjo Fiddle Festival, Feinstein has become the go-to host, captivating audiences with his magnetic stage presence and deep-rooted passion for music. Whether he’s introducing legendary acts, cracking jokes, or rallying the crowd, Feinstein’s emcee skills have made him a beloved fixture at festivals across the country, turning every event into an unforgettable experience.

Whether they’re lighting up a festival stage, busking on a street corner, or bringing the house down at a private event, Water Tower delivers a performance that’s equal parts raw energy, technical brilliance, and unbridled passion. Their music is a call to arms for anyone who’s ever felt like an outsider, a celebration of the wild, untamed spirit that lives in all of us.

So, if you’re ready to experience a band that’s rewriting the rules of bluegrass and punk, look no further than Water Tower. Join The Owls, grab your dancing shoes, and get ready for a ride you’ll never forget. The revolution is here—and it sounds like Water Tower.

Learn more about their wild journey on Wikipedia.