Logan, Utah is an unassuming place for great music to thrive, but I’ve long believed that the stronger the culture, the stronger the counter-culture! Logan is no exception! It’s had a thriving music scene at least since I was in high school (all the way back in the year 2000!).
So, what are the best bands in Logan?
Well, obviously this list is entirely subjective – and it can’t possibly encompass all the great local talent that exists in Cache Valley. That said, here are some of my personal favorites based on my own experiences and interactions!
If you’re looking for some great local music, be sure to reach out to these bands and artists!
Gag City
Gag City is a femme-fronted punk rock band hailing from Logan. Embracing the DIY ethos of punk, they have been channeling their music into a force for social change, promoting messages of empowerment and resistance. Their performances are characterized by high energy and authenticity, making them a standout part of the local punk scene.
Gag City’s presence extends beyond their music, though. I consider them great role models and have often looked at how they react to pertinent issues when considering what my own response should be.
They also actively engage with their community and fans through platforms like Instagram, where they share posts that range from the silly to the serious. By combining powerful music with a clear moral compass and social message, Gag City has established themselves as role models within Logan’s, and Utah’s, music community.
• Gag City on Bandcamp
• Gag City on Instagram
• Gag City on Spotify
Big Sis
Big Sis is a high-energy, good-natured band that brings an eccentric and extravagant flair to the music scene. Known for their infectious rhythms and dance-inducing beats, they create an atmosphere that encourages audiences to let loose and enjoy the moment. Their performances are characterized by a blend of fun and spontaneity, making each show a unique experience.
Their songs – as well as their sometimes outlandish outfits – capture the hearts of pretty much anyone who sees them live. With songs that range from playful to profound, Big Sis manages to maintain a balance between entertainment and artistic expression that is engaging and delightful.
Online, they have some of the most fun and wonderfully bizarre posts and show promos. You never know what you’ll see from them next – and it keeps that spark of child-like curiosity alive even in the coldest hearts.
Salduro
Salduro, a longtime rock band from Logan, Utah, has been delivering their unique brand of rock’n’roll for years. Their music evokes a bygone era of great rock musicians and bands – blending heavy sounds reminiscent of Nirvana with melodies and lyrics reminiscent of Janis Joplin. Their performances are known for their high energy and eccentricity, creating a sonic bath that encourages audiences to sway and bounce along.
That said, the band doesn’t stay static either. It would be a disservice to relegate them to a couple bands, genres, or eras. They experiment with a variety of sounds, ideas, and inspirations – making every song unique and different.
Salduro is another band that I’ve often looked to as a leader and role model. Their commitment to the local community has been evident throughout their existence – often participating in local events and causes that support equality.
• Salduro on Bandcamp
• Salduro on Spotify
Katie Jo Olsen
Katie Jo Olsen is an incredibly multi-talented musician based in Logan, Utah – even being able to play multiple instruments at once as a solo act (with an awesome suitcase drum kit to match!). Her shows are heartfelt and charming – often balancing energetic rock with cathartic ballads.
But wait – there’s more! Katie Jo Olsen is also a core part of other musical projects, including HilKat Johnson and The Homewreckers – proving her versatility and deep love for collaboration. Whether it’s stripped-down acoustic sets or full-band rock shows, she brings passion and feeling to every performance.
Beyond her music, Katie Jo is a powerful voice for equality. I’ve found her presence in the community — both on and off stage — to make her a standout role model, as well as a standout musician.
My New Mistress
My New Mistress is an OG Logan, Utah, band that’s been around for a while. Comprised of some of Utah’s most rockingest musicians – Jeremy Harper, Adam Brown, Doug Callahan, and Robert Watkins – they have an energetic and fun sound mixing classic rock, heavy rock, and pop rock. I can’t NOT dance to them whenever they play!
With heavy and fast songs, rhythmic headbangers, and soft, emotionally moving songs – they have a range of sound to whet any musical appetite. Three things are guaranteed at any My New Mistress show: Fun antics, sweeping doses of humor, and lots of rock’n’roll.
• My New Mistress on Bandcamp
• My New Mistress on Spotify
Open Door Policy
I might be a little biased here, but it would be pretty silly of me not to include my own band in this list. Open Door Policy has been around for 10 years now – and while the band lineup has changed here and there, and our sound has definitely evolved, we’ve always been committed to putting on a good show, uplifting those around us, and fighting the good fight.
We do our best to be good stewards of local music and our surrounding community. Where we can, we highlight other bands and shows. We are always game for participating in fundraisers and important causes – like Logan Pride. And wherever we play, we put on a show that is guaranteed to make people dance and bop!
• Open Door Policy’s website
• Open Door Policy on Facebook
• Open Door Policy on Instagram
• Open Door Policy on Bandcamp
• Open Door Policy on Spotify
Honorable Mentions
There’s simply too much great music to fit into one list – other great Logan bands that I highly recommend checking out include: