Rachel Staggs is best known for her work in Experimental Aircraft, where she perfected sculpting songs from reverb-soaked guitars. She is also one of the most prolific voices in contemporary noise pop and shoegaze, contributing vocals to bands from the UK, Australia, and Czech Republic, as well as assembling a string of solo releases and collaborations. She first stepped out under the moniker Rachel Goldstar and has collaborated with Jessica Bailiff in Eau Claire and Matt Bartram, of Air Formation in the Static Silence.
In years past, she was a member of the Tunnels, the Swells, and the Black Angels, and has recorded and performed with many other Austin artists. In October 2010, Rachel appeared with a reunited Chapterhouse on 4 of their 7 North American tour dates, singing on “Pearl”. Currently, she is composing, recording and performing with her husband in All in the Golden Afternoon. 

Rachel began as a classically trained clarinetist before exploring composition on other instruments. Although her trademark sound displays her howling guitars teetering on atonal landslides paired with auspiciously undistracted melodies, she can be heard playing every instrument on many recordings. She utilizes a combination of analog and electronic methods and noises, all of which are tied together by her voice.

Peyote Beach is the culmination of decades of musical study, playing multiple instruments and roles in many bands, mastering muscle memory, and always remaining curious. Peyote Beach is Rachel’s outlet for her newest songwriting, coming after years of hibernation, internal processing, resilience and reflection.

peyote beach