Hot IQs, Stereotyperider, and American Relay say goodbye this weekend

In a music scene’s cycle of life, as new bands sprout and blossom, established bands inevitably have to step out of the limelight and say goodbye (unless you’re Denver Joe or Forth Yeer Freshman). This weekend, Denver bids farewell to the Hot IQs, Stereotyperider, and American Relay.

In probably the most crushing blow of all, Hot IQs play its final “big” show (they will be part of the infamous Larimer Lounge BBQ series on August 2) tonight at the Bluebird Theater with Bad Weather California and San Francisco’s FOMA. Since their first show at the long-defunct Hipster Youth Halfway House over five years ago, Hot IQs have been banging out some of Denver’s best happy rock ’n’ roll with an Iggy Pop swagger, getting much deserved national attention in the process. This show is all ages, but free for those 21 and over.

Stereotyperider will also play its final Denver show tonight at Larimer Lounge with Only Thunder, Taun Taun, and Mustangs And Madras. Originally from Phoenix, Arizona, the metal-math rockers found a place in Colorado, taking up residence on the Suburban Home label. They will play a show in South Dakota and one in Arizona before closing the book forever.

Tomorrow night American Relay will also be saying farewell at 3 Kings Tavern with Hennessy Morning and Adam Lee And The Dead Horse Sound Company. Via email, drummer Alex Herbert told Decider, “We worked hard, traveled hard, and rocked even harder these last five years. We've grown and will continue our artistic endeavors separately with our friendship is intact.”

Shouldn’t all band break-ups be this pretty?

Hot IQs' "Houndstooth" (featuring cameos by many Denver friends and fans):