Louisiana-based band LVVRS is preparing to perform at this year’s Jazz Fest, coinciding with the release of their sophomore EP, Heaven and the Heartland, in May 2025. Front and center of this musical evolution is their lead single, “The Love You Gave,” set to drop on Jan. 24.

Having first burst onto the scene on Valentine’s Day in 2018, LVVRS has earned a reputation for their pop-rock blend and versatility. Their influences range from the sleek stylings of Maroon 5 to the glam-rock edge of T. Rex and the contemporary brilliance of The 1975. Frontman and guitarist River Gibson’s dynamic vocal presence and onstage charisma have drawn comparisons to Adam Levine and Michael Hutchence of INXS. Much like Levine, Gibson straddles the worlds of pop and rock with effortless confidence.

The former American Idol contestant told OffBeat’s John Wirt in 2019 that if he played Cajun music, he could be gigging in his native Acadiana every day. But waltzes and two-steps never moved him. Green Day did.

“I appreciate Cajun music,” said the then-24-year-old singer-guitarist. “But it never called out to me. Growing up, bands like Green Day and Foo Fighters and Coldplay inspired me.”

“It’s challenging for bands like us,” Gibson added. “People like Cajun music because they can go out and have a good time and drink. They know what to expect every time. But I never dabbled with Cajun music because it never really came from my heart. I’m into doing what’s in my heart and not faking anything.”

The band states that their upcoming EP, Heaven and the Heartland, is poised to showcase their continued evolution, each track serving as a testament to their creative growth and ability to craft songs with distinct personalities.

The LVVRS’ debut EP, Midnight Fantasy (2024), featured the single, “Iconic,” which gained airplay on alternative radio stations like WZRH-FM and featured the band on KADN News FOX15 in Lafayette, LA. Additionally, the music video for the song, “Fever Night,” from the album earned the prestigious won “Best Music Video” at the 2024 Josie Music Awards at Nashville’s Grand ‘Ole Opry last October. LVVRs’ music has also found its way into pop culture, with tracks like “Alive” featured in Netflix’s Love Is Blind
(Season 4) and  the band made a cameo in the Zac Efron and Lily James film Iron Claw.

For more information about the band, click here.