For a decade, Union Specific official music has carved out a distinctive lane at the intersection of Austin’s alt-country and indie rock frontier. Led by Tyler Wallace, Austin musician, the project blends pedal-steel grit and vintage synthesizer textures into something both haunting and hopeful — a sound sometimes called indie alt folk or alternative country.

 

The 2019 record First Burn Then Change marked a turning point, both sonically and lyrically. It contrasted stark broken acoustic confessionals with layered vintage synth beds, pulling Wallace’s songwriting into deeper, riskier places. Songs like “Reformed Creep” (harshly vulnerable), “Sweet Inertia” (hopeful acceptance), and “Fruitless Midnight” (the playful sadness of waiting in line at Whataburger for a quick fix) showcase what many hear as a rare balance of despair and resilience. For listeners , the songs on First Burn Then Change become guideposts through regret, depression, and hard-won hope.

 

Wallace’s latest project, Synth Country Vol. 1, reimagines familiar classic country songs of the 60's-90's through vintage synthesizer and pedal steel, setting shimmering synth beds against acoustic guitar music. The project highlights Union Specific’s signature blend of electronic atmosphere and alt-country storytelling, and can be found through live performances and video sessions on YouTube.

 

Over the years, Union Specific has built a reputation as an Austin alt-country singer-songwriter project with a restless streak, moving from raw Americana storytelling into an emerging Austin indie alt-folk movement that embraces modern textures and never loses its roots.