Live Review: Greywater, Duncan Brothers Band, and 12Downn at MadLife Stage & Studios in Woodstock, GA, 12/2/25

About once each month, MadLife Stage & Studios host a “Breaking Bands Showcase” night, featuring local up-and-coming bands. It’s a great opportunity for fans of live music to discover what’s new in the Atlanta area. Openers 12Downn consisted simply of a drummer (allegedly only 16 years old) and a singer-guitarist. Playing original songs including “Canton, Georgia” along with a satisfying version of CCR‘s “Have You Ever Seen the Rain,” The boys put it all out there.

The Duncan Brothers Band radiated like an established country rock band; Twin brothers Matt and Colin Duncan lead the five-piece group of tight musicianship and rousing sounds. Playing their own creations including the first single, “Sweet Birmingham,” as well as a solid cover of the Eddie Rabbitt classic, “Driving My Life Away,” the group impressed. Killer harmonies and a heckuva lead guitar player make The Duncan Brothers Band one to watch.

Headliners Greywater amped up the volume and intensity playing songs from their self-produced debut EP Jamerson Road Demos. Kicking off the set of originals was “Revolver,” followed by five tunes that were turned up to 11. Formed in Atlanta, GA, Greywater describes itself as “Southern Grunge,” and seeing them live proves that point. Furthermore, the band “…brings elements of shoegaze, grunge, and metal into a single alt-rock act. Drawing core inspiration from 90’s grunge artists like Alice in Chains, Deftones, and Stone Temple Pilots.”

Their sound is fresh and solid, composed of members Ethan Powell (bass, backing vocals), Walker Smith (vocals, guitar), Aubrey Dean (guitar), and Jack Overstreet (drums). Powell, Smith, and Overstreet have known each other since middle school, while the trio reached out and found a lead guitarist in Dean, who appears to shred 24/7. Smith’s vocals are consistent with the Grunge genre remaining smooth and strong. The rhythm section of Powell and Overstreet provides heart-stopping lows counterbalancing the guitars. Keep an eye on this foursome.

All three acts showed a lot of promise and were equally appreciative for their time on stage, thanking fans effusively. Stay connected with the MadLife website for more chances to catch all the upcoming young talents during the Breaking Bands Showcases.

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