We Are Stories is really about the heart and soul of rock music. We have an unwavering love for music at the forefront of everything we do. Our journey as a band has been uniquely shaped by our individual musical backgrounds and this shared passion for making great original music together.  We just stay true to ourselves and hope to genuinely connect with our audience.      


Ferni Lopez //vocals, guitar 
Ferni Lopez, the founder of We Are Stories, embarked on his musical journey in childhood, writing lyrics and recording melodies at a young age before picking up an instrument. As a seasoned performer, Ferni honed his skills as a songwriter, guitarist, and vocalist on numerous Texas stages. He previously started two other original bands, Of Love and Justice(Houston) and Brother Sol (Austin), which made some ripples in their respective local music scenes. In 2012, Ferni began releasing his music as a solo artist, gaining some international recognition for delivering sincere and intense vocals, coupled with his ability to produce intriguing guitar sounds.      


Brandon Hatcher //guitar 
Brandon Hatcher is a seasoned, versatile guitarist with nearly 20 years of experience, including lead/rhythm guitarist for successful Houston cover band Fat Kat. He previously co-founded the original progressive rock band Ever The Wolf, co-writing and producing their debut album in under a year. An accomplished and tasteful guitarist, Brandon found a new musical home with We Are Stories, where he shares a strong connection with the other members.      


Mike Acosta //drums 
Mike Acosta’s lifelong passion for music began behind a drum kit at the age of nine. Influenced by legendary drummers like Neil Peart, Steve Smith, Stewart Copland, Jeff Porcaro, and Steve Gadd, he developed a versatile style rooted in precision, groove, and musicality. Mike has performed with numerous original and cover bands across Laredo, Austin, and Houston—leaving his mark in groups such as Bad Habit, BattleAngel, Whiskey Flight, Ever The Wolf, and Evil Brew. For him, drumming is all about creating the kind of energy that makes people feel something—whether they’re dancing, reminiscing, or simply escaping into the rhythm.       


Mark Rutledge //bass 
Mark Rutledge, the bands newest member, now holds down the low end for We Are Stories (taking the reins from Jeff Barnum). A lifelong bassist and endorsed by Ashen Amps, Mark spent decades playing loud rooms, small clubs, and everything in between, developing a tone that’s solid, direct, and hard to shake. He began his musical journey at a young age, developing his craft on bass and expanding his versatility by studying multiple instruments and multiple genres. As a recording musician, Mark has contributed to his own projects and to other artists, bringing the same focus and consistency into the studio that he brings to the stage. With past chapters in bands like Ever The Wolf, Evil Brew, and The Midnight Drifters, he brings experience, restraint, and a strong musical instinct that anchors the band - locking in, digging deep, and letting the music speak.