Kenton Place performing during Buzzfest 2025 at the Cynthia Woods Mitchell Pavilion in The Woodlands, Texas on May 24, 2025, with Logan Smalley (vocals, rhythm guitar), Noe Hernandez (drums), Roque Techera (lead guitar), Aiden Zigman (rhythm guitar), and Curtis Bird. (Photo: Ralph Arvesen)
In the nation's most diverse city, Kenton Place has firmly established itself as a distinctive force within the vibrant Houston music scene. This quintet is breathing new life into heavy rock, expertly blending the hard-hitting sounds of the past with a fresh, contemporary edge. They're bringing a much-needed rock 'n' roll revival to modern times.
The band is a true testament to turning childhood friendship into a powerful musical machine. Logan Smalley (vocals, rhythm guitar), Noe Hernandez (drums), Roque Techera (lead guitar), Aiden Zigman (rhythm guitar), and Curtis Bird (bass) are constantly creating, redefining what it means to be a working band. Uniquely, every member is actively pursuing demanding academic degrees—from financial planning and graphic design to law, double bass, and environmental studies. Yet, through all the study sessions and challenging exams, Kenton Place powers through.
Their dedication has led them to collaborate with industry heavyweights such as Grammy Award-nominated producer Ulrich Wild (known for his work with Pantera, Breaking Benjamin, Deftones, and Slipknot) and Grammy Award-winning mastering engineer Ted Jensen (Evanescence, Green Day, Billy Joel, and Norah Jones). They've also worked with Ken Stringfellow (The Posies, R.E.M.) and Derrick McKinney, founder and CEO of L.O.U.D. Muzik.
Kenton Place has graced the stages of world-famous venues like House of Blues and White Oak Music Hall in Houston, and they've been a featured act at the SXSW Austin Showcase. Their music has even earned airtime on Houston's premier rock station, 94.5 The Buzz. The common thread uniting all these significant opportunities and relationships is an unfettered passion for loving and sharing music with their audience.
The band has released two full-length albums. Their debut, "Terminal," features standout tracks such as “Done With You,” “Haley’s Comet,” and “Roses on the Wall.” This album was produced and recorded by Ulrich Wild and mastered by Ted Jensen, and notably included Laurel Smalley on lead vocals. Their powerful sophomore album, "Road to Redemption," was also produced and mastered by Ulrich Wild and boasts strong songs like “Alone,” “Blood,” and “Hope.” Kenton Place is currently hard at work on new music, eager to continue bringing unforgettable experiences to their growing base of fans and listeners.
94.5 The Buzz
94.5 The Buzz (KTBZ-FM) is a prominent radio station based in Houston, Texas, owned by iHeartMedia. It primarily broadcasts a mainstream rock and alternative rock format, serving as Houston's go-to station for a blend of contemporary rock hits and classic alternative anthems. Known for its high-energy programming and engaging personalities, The Buzz has been a fixture in the Houston radio scene for years. The station plays a significant role in the local music scene, often promoting concerts and events, including its own large-scale music festival, Buzzfest.
https://www.iheart.com/live/945-the-buzz-2281/
Cynthia Woods Mitchell Pavilion
Nestled amidst the lush forests of The Woodlands, Texas, just north of Houston, The Cynthia Woods Mitchell Pavilion stands as a beacon of live entertainment and performing arts. More than just a concert venue, it's a non-profit organization dedicated to enriching the cultural landscape of the greater Houston region.
The Cynthia Woods Mitchell Pavilion is renowned for its world-class acoustics, vibrant atmosphere, and its unique open-air design that blends seamlessly with its natural surroundings. It serves as the cherished "summer home" for the Houston Symphony, a "second home" for the Houston Ballet, and a presenting venue for the Houston Grand Opera, offering numerous free and low-cost performing arts events to the community. This commitment to accessibility is a cornerstone of its mission, with educational outreach programs reaching tens of thousands of students and families annually.
Fan reviews:Kenton Place shared the stage with Chevelle, Marilyn Manson, Blue October, P.O.D., Evans Blue, Sleep Theory, and Stabbing Westward at the Cynthia Woods Mitchell Pavilion.
Amazing! All Buzzfest was amazing! Great bands, my wife and I had a blast!
Buzzfest equals a good time! Buzzfest never fails at a good time, I will see you next year Buzzfest!
Fantastic!! Awesome concert! Will come back again! Enjoyed every moment of it!
Awesome show! I love this venue! The show was well organized and fantastic! Nice line up too!
Great show by all the artist! Buzzfest was a great show and all the artist put on a high energy performance. Was very impressed with the line up and the effort and energy each band gave out.
The concert was fantastic so was the Woodland's Pavilion. The staff at the Woodlands were excellent. I felt safe at all times.
Chevelle's music is so indistinctive you know exactly who it is the moment you here them start playing, they put on one of the best shows you will ever see. They're also not full of them selves like a lot of other bands you see today.
Marilyn Manson at his best! Marilyn Manson was absolutely fantastic. His vocals were on fire. Sounded so great and he had so much enthusiasm.
I love Blue October, the songs have a way of touching your soul. The lyrics are always so real they manage to put so much of themselves into each song which then finds away that can reach everyone in some way.
Been a fan since I was little and P.O.D. did not disappoint! This was my first live experience with them and it definitely won't be the last.
Evans Blue was amazing, they know how to rock and keep the crowd in it. They left me wanting more, I'd recommend anyone to see them.
Stabbing Westward were awesome. They sounded great and played a great set. Good mix of old and new songs. Five stars for the band.
Sleep Theory were absolutely amazing! Seen them twice now, these guys need to be famous. Great show, amazing energy and fantastic songs!
Kenton Place
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Photos by Ralph Arvesen
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