Tender Brutes

Grit and bite.

Tender Brutes is a Cincinnati-based rock trio built on contrast, intricate, hard-hitting drums, lyrical bass lines, and commanding vocals at the center. Comprised of a queer lineup with an unlikely mix of influences, the band leans into tension, pairing choppy, rhythmic song structures with dark, unconventional themes.

Drawing comparisons to acts like Screaming Females, Concrete Blonde, and Black Sabbath, their sound blends grit, melody, and weight, anchored by tight interplay between drums, bass, and rhythm guitar.

Their debut EP Bloodletter (2025) introduced the band’s raw, immersive style, followed by Love. Sex. Trauma. (2026). Tender Brutes have performed across Cincinnati at venues including MOTR Pub, The Comet, Northside Tavern, and Southgate House Revival, and held a residency at MOTR in 2025.

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Press / Reviews

“Tender Brutes’ debut EP, Bloodletter, showcases a signature blend of alt-rock intensity and introspective lyricism. With tracks like “Penance,” they delve into haunting melodies and visceral themes, offering anthemic hooks like in “Beautiful Wreck,” that capture the essence of the band’s unique sound. ” - CityBeat Staff

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