Inner Stellar is the brainchild of Christopher Sikora, Chris Shwayka, and Derek Burroughs, a band that first emerged in Denver’s thriving jam band scene. While rooted in improvisation, their sound evolved to incorporate jazz, electronic music, and classic influences, leading to a unique fusion of psychedelic composition and songwriting.

Sikora (vocals, guitar, synths) and Burroughs (drums, keyboards) have been playing together since their high school days in Baltimore, MD. Their move west to Denver introduced them to Shwayka (bass, synths) at a studio jam session, where they bonded over a shared passion for the great music of past eras. Frustrated by the lack of this depth in the local scene, they immersed themselves in classic recording techniques, composition, and musicianship, refining their craft with the help of mentors and a deep obsession with old-school production methods.

Inner Stellar’s sound is an ever-evolving journey—melding Sikora and Shwayka’s deep dive into synthesis and music theory with Burroughs’ lifelong study of rhythm and drumming concepts. The result is a powerhouse of sonic innovation, seamlessly blending the past and future of music.

Their debut LP, recorded at Voyager Studios during the COVID era, was not just an album—it was a labor of love, created while simultaneously building Voyager Studios into a sustainable creative space. Released in 2022 to great reception, it set the stage for their upcoming 2025 follow-up, a record that places a stronger emphasis on songwriting and marks Sikora’s return as lead vocalist.​

​

Bandcamp