The Art of Integrity: Reno’s Etiquette Strips Away Labels to Find Their Voice
- Lauren Juillerat
- 10 minutes ago
- 4 min read
Written by Tommylee Spurger
Photography by Trevor Castillo
Etiquette is not interested in giving listeners an easy label. Instead, the band draws influences from Blondie, 50’s Jazz, The Smiths and Radiohead, creating a sound that cannot be described by a single genre.
“It kind of takes the fun out of the guessing game for everybody. I'm giving you the answer,’ drummer Wolfgang Hendrix, said when asked why Etiquette’s sound is difficult to describe. This Reno-based group said that while its members have yet to settle on their sonic signature, they aren't in a rush to do so.
“It's because we're not really searching for what we're trying to be,” Wolfgang said.
Sitting inside Midnight Coffee, the band reminisced about forming Etiquette in the very place where it all began. Frontman Jacob Darby recalled attending one of his first local shows at Midnight Coffee after moving to the area three years ago.
As he stood in the crowd of unfamiliar faces, Jacob watched a man who seemed to personify hard rock take the stage. His smeared eyeliner drew attention to his eyes that told a story of defiance.
Wolfgang performed alongside his band Pussy Velour. As Jacob immersed himself in the music scene, he quickly connected with like-minded people such as guitarist Zaine Jackson. The two began playing music together in hopes of building something more. Captivated by Wolfgang’s performances and their old-school rock energy, they approached him about playing drums for the band.
The group initially struggled to find a reliable bassist who could capture its unconventional vision and sound. Zach Hurley was eventually introduced to the group through his work with the band No One Good.
“Improvisation is just whatever you were raised on, whatever caught your ear, and that's still within your body, in your hands, your mind, whatever you're playing, and that comes out without you trying,” Zach said when asked about his contribution to the group. He explained that although his 1960’s orchestral influences differ from those of his bandmates, those differences bring Etiquette’s sound together.
That invisible string pulled the four musicians closer through a shared passion for authenticity and originality.
The band released its debut EP, “What a Day!,” Jan. 2, 2026. The sound quickly catches ears. On the EP’s title track, Jacob belts “What a day, what a bright sun.” His vocals recall Frank Sinatra with an indie rock sound. Soaring guitar riffs follow Jacob’s words and syncopated drums carry the song's raw emotion.
The band members expressed appreciation for the space Etiquette gives each of them to create, feel heard and contribute to the creative process.
“I'm more mindful about the music in this band. I take what I write in this band a little more seriously,” Zaine said.
“I think what we all write and bring to the table is very different from what everyone else has going on,” Zaine said.
When asked about the band's future, the members discussed the possibility of touring while reaffirming their appreciation for Reno as a music sanctuary.
“You can't buy community. It seems like the world is less scary and wrong when you have a community together,” Wolfgang said.
The band members hope to make a living solely through music and have considered record labels and major market cities. However, they do not want to sacrifice the heart of their music for commercial success.
“If you make it off something you don't like it’s not gonna last long,” Zach said.
Although Etiquette is still early in its career, the members discussed the challenges artists face while trying to be heard. They said the industry often takes advantage of musicians seeking greater visibility. With 30 years of experience under his studded belt, Wolfgang said success in music is often measured through fulfillment rather than money.
“I’m ok with not making it as long as I'm making things I like listening to,” Wolfgang said.
As the band continues to find its footing, its members hope to continue prioritizing the experience over the numbers, particularly through live performances rather than studio recordings.
“If you play a song live and it smacks, it changes everybody. Like for that minute to three minutes, everyone's like they let go of everything, they forget everything,” Wolfgang said.
Etiquette plans to release its first full-length LP in early 2027 and is set to release their new single "Scratching at the Walls” August 21st, sticking true to their appreciation of live music by giving fans a same day performance at The Greenhouse. As Etiquette continues to develop its sound, the band remains rooted in the Reno community and the shared experience of live music.
Keep up with Etiquette:
Follow Etiquette on Instagram
Stream "Scratching at the Walls"
Listen to their debut EP, What a Day!
