The Lavender Scare is a queer-influenced indie rock band from Los Angeles, CA comprised of musicians James Delos Reyes and Luis Servin. Formed in 2016, the band has evolved sonically from tight moody sing-a-longs to colorful epic anthems inspired by bands like Radiohead and Arcade Fire. Singer James Delos Reyes grew up in the church developing his musical skills by playing in and leading various worship bands. Struggling to make sense of his own sexuality alongside long-held beliefs, he eventually left the church creating the backdrop used for many of the lyrical themes and imagery that the Lavender Scare sifts through. Songs like "Sermonettes," "Sunday Sons," and "Careful Little Eyes" explore topics on gender identity, sexuality, and religion. One of their latest singles "Better Looking Boy" pays homage to a popular gay hookup app for which Reyes actually worked on for years. The single was even released with its own standalone app called BettrLook as an interactive companion to the song's lyrics and is available on both iOS and Android. It stands a pure example of the band's creativity and willingness to explore sensitive topics not often found in indie music. Despite this, their music remains above all irresistible. The dark satire reveals itself to be charming. The attitudes of defiance and resistance are universally felt. And as always, the melodies stay catchy. Even fundamentalists will secretly be tapping their toes while shaking their fists.