Vertige is a rising force in the LA music scene, blending raw emotion, dynamic guitar playing, and a mesmerizing voice. Formed in 2022, the band brings together musicians from diverse backgrounds, each with unique stories and musical influences. From the streets of Paris to the vibrant music scene of Los Angeles, Vertige’s formation is as fascinating as the music they create.

The Formation of Vertige

Vertige’s origin story began with Naomi, a Parisian singer with a deep love for jazz. Raised in a musical household with her mother being a jazz performer, Naomi’s journey into music started at an early age. By the time she was two years old, she was already performing on stage. After spending years singing in jazz clubs in New York City, Naomi made her way to LA, determined to take her musical aspirations to the next level.

In 2022, Naomi set out to form a band, initially motivated by a crush on a guitarist she had met. But what began as an attempt to impress soon evolved into a meaningful pursuit of musical collaboration. Through online dating apps, Naomi met a Parisian living in LA who, although not a romantic match, introduced her to Augustus. Augustus would go on to co-found Vertige, marking the beginning of a musical partnership that would result in the band’s unique sound.

Despite the challenges Naomi faced in building the band, she remained determined. She booked a show for September 2022 before even securing all the necessary band members. While walking around the Home Depot on Sunset Boulevard, she left her number on a cool-looking guy’s car, hoping for a connection. This unexpected encounter led to the recruitment of the band’s first drummer and bassist. Eventually, these early members gave way to the current lineup, with Jeremy, another French musician, now holding the drumsticks.

Augustus: The Guitarist Who Shaped Vertige’s Sound

At the heart of Vertige’s distinctive sound is Augustus, the band’s guitarist. Born and raised in Lyon, France, Augustus was introduced to the world of Texas Blues and Rock n’ Roll at the young age of nine. Over the years, his playing has been influenced by guitar legends like Stevie Ray Vaughan, Eric Johnson, Jimi Hendrix, and David Gilmour. Augustus dedicated himself to guitar practice, making it a part of his daily routine.

Although Augustus initially pursued a Bachelor’s in Physics at University College London, his passion for music led him to make a bold decision: instead of continuing with his studies, he moved to LA to chase his musical dreams. This decision proved to be pivotal, as it brought him together with Naomi and eventually formed Vertige.

Beyond his technical skills, Augustus’s personal experiences also play a role in the band’s lyrical content. One of Vertige’s songs, “Sarah,” tells the story of Augustus’s unrequited love for Naomi’s best friend, Sarah. This blend of personal life and music adds a layer of depth to the band’s narrative, making their songs relatable and emotionally resonant.

The Band’s Lineup and Musical Chemistry

While Naomi and Augustus may be the focal points of Vertige, the band’s sound would not be complete without the contribution of Andreas, the bassist. A Swedish musician, Andreas adds a unique flavor to the band’s music, perfectly complementing the rhythm section laid down by drummer Jeremy. The interplay between Naomi’s energetic voice, Augustus’s dynamic guitar, and the solid backline provided by Jeremy and Andreas creates a musical chemistry that is undeniable.

Vertige’s music reflects the drama and intensity of the band’s personal lives. Their upcoming album, which draws heavily on personal experiences, will feature songs like “The Heart,” inspired by Naomi’s past crush; “Michael’s Song,” about a former bandmate; “Sarah,” about Augustus’s relationship with Naomi’s best friend; and “Another Gun Story,” a chilling account of Naomi’s former boyfriend pulling a gun on her in the desert. These deeply personal stories are transformed into powerful musical expressions that resonate with their audience.

Vertige’s Vision: A Musical Drama

At its core, Vertige’s sound is defined by the electric symbiosis between Naomi’s trance-like, energetic voice and Augustus’s guitar, which blends elements of Blues with a modern edge. This dialogue between vocals and guitar is the foundation of the band’s musical drama, with Jeremy and Andreas providing the rock-solid foundation that ties everything together.

Vertige’s vision is to create music that is both emotionally engaging and musically exploratory. Their songs are not just about the melodies, but also about the stories they tell and the emotions they evoke. The band’s performances, such as their upcoming show at The Viper Room on November 28th, offer fans an opportunity to experience the intensity and passion that define Vertige’s music.

Connect with Vertige

Stay up to date with Vertige’s latest news, music releases, and upcoming shows through the following platforms:

• Instagram: @vertigetheband
• Spotify: Vertige on Spotify
• Official Website: www.vertigetheband.com

Follow Vertige for an inside look into their musical journey and exclusive updates on upcoming projects.