Band bio

Carbon City Lights is an indie alternative rock band based in San Luis Obispo, California. Lead singer, Michael Venia, was a contestant on Season 21 of NBC’s hit show, The Voice. Listeners appreciate the authenticity that comes from Venia’s thoughtful lyrics about life, loss, and love, and his powerful vocals. Live performances are energetic and dynamic with alt-rock jams featuring rocking cello and moving ballads. In 2024, they won New Times Music Awards for best live performance and best alt-rock song. Band highlights have included playing incredible music festivals and venues alongside artists such as Brett Dennen and Birdtalker.

Michael Venia's journey started with an accordion in Saudi Arabia & morphed into playing other instruments & recording on a 4-track mixer. His alt-rock middle school band performed locally, catching attention of CNN correspondent, Christianne Amanpour, who featured a piece on western music in the Middle East. In his journey, Michael is no stranger to love and loss. He lost both his parents and tragically lost his son through stillbirth. He finds music and performance to be a powerful force for coping and healing. More details of a happy new beginning here.