The Founder

The Founder: Austin Winkler Proves Musical Resurrection Is Beautifully Messy in Buffalo, NY

Buffalo Iron Works was hot, in both temperature and energy, on a humid Tuesday night as The Founder, the new project from former Hinder frontman Austin Winkler, took the stage and proved that musical resurrection can be messy, soulful, and worth every second.

After an eight-year hiatus from the music scene, Winkler was open with the crowd about where he’s been. He fell out of love with music, felt disconnected, and was unsure if he’d ever return. But now he’s back, backed by a brand-new band and armed with his May 2025 EP Walking Ded. Winkler laid himself bare for anyone willing to listen, sharing songs that reflect real life and the road to recovery.

The night began with “The Fall,” a gritty, emotionally charged track that Winkler recommended as the perfect starting point for those curious about The Founder. Right from the first notes, the message was clear. This was not a nostalgia show. While a few Hinder classics made it into the setlist, including the crowd-favorite “Lips of an Angel,” the spotlight was firmly on Winkler’s new material and identity.

The music was deeply personal and reflective, filled with the pain and growth of someone who has lived through the highs and lows of fame and addiction. Winkler’s voice, still gritty and powerful, carried a sharper emotional edge that gave the songs a haunting resonance. He spoke candidly about picking up the guitar again after years away and using songwriting as a way to reconnect with himself and his art.

Despite the weight of the themes, the vibe was anything but somber. Winkler was in good spirits, sharing laughs with the audience and joking with his bandmates. At one point, he made a comment about the size of his stage towel, which drew laughs from the crowd. The camaraderie on stage was clear, especially between Winkler and his nephew, who plays bass. Considering the band was formed just over a week ago, their chemistry was surprisingly tight. A mid-set cover of Journey’s “Don’t Stop Believin’,” performed while Winkler stepped aside for a break, turned into a fun singalong moment that showed how well the group connected with the crowd.

The night ended on a strong note with “Super Jaded,” a standout track from Winkler’s 2022 solo work. It was a fitting conclusion, with the music echoing the theme of transformation and perseverance that defined the whole night.

Rebuilding a music career from the ground up is never easy, especially when so many artists choose to rely on former glory. But Winkler is taking the harder route, creating something new, honest, and rooted in experience. The Founder is not just a band name. It’s a statement of purpose. And based on the response from the Buffalo audience, this new chapter is already making its mark.