Born from the underground music scene of Cincinnati, OH in the late-2010s, Sungaze began as the humble bedroom recording project of lead guitarist and songwriter Ian Hilvert.

Having recently left his longtime metal band, his goal was to pursue a softer, more enveloping sound.  Hilvert initially recruited then-girlfriend Ivory Snow as a temporary keyboardist, but when it was discovered that she had not only long dreamt of singing, but actually could sing, her role within the project grew.  The combination of Hilvert's ear and years of technical prowess and Snow's unique voice and proclivity for storytelling slowly shaped Sungaze into the soaring, emotional powerhouse it is today. 

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Across four independent album releases, Sungaze have built a steady following and continue to carve a name for themselves in the indie sphere. 2026 expanded upon the band's success with the release of their fourth studio album I'm No Longer Afraid of Heights. 

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Influenced by the atmosphere of shoegaze and the nostalgic pull of midwest emo, their music blends lush, textured guitars with clear vocals and poetic lyricism. It is music for people who feel deeply, don’t always fit in, and are open to finding beauty in unexpected places. 

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Sungaze is currently based in Cincinnati, OH and is comprised of Ian Hilvert on lead guitar and vocals, Ivory Snow on lead vocals, Angela Wren on bass guitar, Charlie Hausfeld on rhythm guitar, and Tyler Collier on drums.