Clay Moon

Clay Moon is a Santa Cruz band making music that feels like real life, sometimes bright and full of energy, sometimes reflective and raw. It all started when singer-songwriter Jo Coleman (vocals, guitar) crossed paths with Zack Bailey (lead guitar, banjo) at an open mic at the Santa Cruz Clay Studio. Pretty soon they pulled in Colton Cori on bass and Jackson Coleman on drums, and later expanded their sound with Mia Reynolds on violin and Atticus Massie on keys.

The result is a sound that drifts between summertime grooves that make you want to move and slow-burn songs that stick with you long after the last note. Jo brings years of songwriting shaped by personal stories and resilience, while the band adds texture, depth, and plenty of soul.

Clay Moon has been making waves around Santa Cruz at spots like The Catalyst, Crepe Place, Shanty Shack, and Steel Bonnet, and even jumped into NPR’s Tiny Desk Contest with their song Over the Falls. Whether they are leaning into a dancey jam or something a little more haunting, Clay Moon keeps it honest, and that is what makes it hit.