Author: nathan.lankford

ATH + SXSW = The Austin Connection

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I’ve been fortunate enough to make some kind friends over the years at SXSW, and they’e helped me grab a spot on their on-going radio programming this year. Twice a month I’ll be looking at the past, present and future of Austin music…though only Official SXSW acts are permissable…and posting my favorite tracks. It’s been a fun experience, reminding me of stuff I missed, or loved, in the past growing up here. Anyways…my first installment ran live yesterday, and you can stream it below. Enjoy, and thanks to SXSW.

Austin Connection #1 (01/18/2016) by Sxswfm on Mixcloud

Don’t Sleep on the Donkeys

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donkeysThe Donkeys have been one of the more consistently enjoyable acts to come across my computer in the last few years. There’s a simplicity to their approach, yet the vocals always seem to possess a certain tonal quality that sinks itself deep within my soul. They’ve been hard at work, as per usual, bringing a new mini-album to the fold. It’s understated pop music of the best sort, with just a hint of California sunshine and country twang. Want a good casual pop song for today? Then you should definitely spend time with this tune; Midnight Palms will be out on February 12th.

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Album Stream: Nathaniel Bellows – The Old Illusions

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nathanWhile Austin seems to have evaded the gentlest clutches of Winter, I’ve foundmyself listening to tons of wintry folk tunes, but perhaps none sounds as complete as the new album from Nathaniel Bellows. The Old Illusions is filled with intricate little guitar details, and a voice that haunts the inside of your mind. Listen carefully throughout, as you’re going to find these little bits of accompaniment that make this album wholly enchanting and pretty inescapable. In a landscape where tunes get discarded for the next batch, this is something with which you can spend all day. I’ve been gravitating towards “At Sea” the most during my listening. Look for the album this Friday, January 22nd!

Ticket Giveaway: Win Tickets to The Soft Moon (1.22)

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softmoonFriday night one of our favorite bands will be gracing the stage for a nice set, and I couldn’t think of a better sound system to handle the wall of beautiful noise that The Soft Moon will bring to the table. The band, primarily the project o Luis Vasquez has been carrying a blend of noise, electronica and industrial pop for some time now, and he’s captivated us through several albums on Captured Tracks…and a nice set at Levitation/Psych Fest. Joining him on the stage that night will be Austin act, VIDEO, as well as Autlier. If you want a pair of tickets for free, leave a comment…pick a number between 1-1000. We’ll contact the winner after NOON on Thursday when the contest comes to a close!

You can also go the other route, and buy tickets from The Parish HERE.

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More From Halfsour

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10572080_985151501527746_6691149212809745892_oNeed an energetic bounce in your step? You do…or at least I do. That’s why I kicked out this new Halfsour track for you, knowing we can all get things amped up in a good feeling way. This is the second single to come from the group’s new record, Tuesday Night Live, which is going to come out this week via Jigsaw Records. It walks that fine line between catchy pop punk and jangly post punk. I have a feeling once you get your hand on these songs you’re going to realize just how infectious the band really is. Turn this one up folks!

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Austin Spotlight: Meet Tres Oui

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tresThe very first record I dallied with on our label was by a little band called Literature, who’ve gone on to great heights with Slumberland Records. But, recently, a few of the guys moved back to Austin and started this brand new musical project, Tres Oui…namely Nathaniel. It’s definitely similar in sound, though hitting more on his own personal influences and tastes in the songwriting. He tossed us this track the other day, hoping to spread the word on his new stuff, get the name out and start playing some shows about in Austin (and beyond). So folks, here’s Tres Oui.

Intrigued by New Kane Strang

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kaneThis is one of those singles that came across by recommendation, as I hadn’t actually heard of Kane Strang until now…but it carried whispers of Flying Nun/Ba Da Bing teamwork to bring it to light, so I had to listen. Of course, there’s that circular guitar ring that seems to have been crafted out of New Zealand, but what really perked my ears is the stabbing keyboard noise coming in from the distant background. Apparently the majority of this recording was done while housesitting alone at his parents, giving off a feeling of isolation that was hinted by an earlier collection of demos. Look for Blue Cheese to make it’s way to the US on February 26th via the aforementioned labels.

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More New Bands w/ Jigsaw Records: The Arch Menaces

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archIt seems like Jigsaw Records has been on a roll the last month, announcing several new releases (not that I’m surprised). Again, they’re bringing you more new tunes, this time from The Arch Menaces. I feel like this really reminds me of the era where Nada Surf were “popular,” providing great songwriting with a heavy-handed guitar. It’s memorable and hook-laden, best fit for those who like to turn their stereos really loud. The record was actually never released, though the Aussie group recorded it in 2012, so I’m glad that Primitive Germs found a home on one of our favorite labels. Look for the album on January 21st.

[soundcloud url=”https://api.soundcloud.com/tracks/239617808″ params=”color=ff9900&auto_play=false&hide_related=false&show_comments=true&show_user=true&show_reposts=false” width=”100%” height=”166″ iframe=”true” /]

Striking New Tune from Dark Blue

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darkblueDammit. I thought I knew what to expect with a band featuring members for Ceremony and Strand of Oaks got together. But, bless me, I wasn’t ready for this incredibly stunning new song from Dark Blue to come our way. Yes, there’s a hint at the darker edges, both musically and lyrically, but I think the biggest statement this band is making is the power of great songwriting. Say what you want about varying genres and tropes, but when you put something together that combines pop sensibility with seasoned musical vets you’ve got a recipe for something that should supersede all boundaries. The band’s brand new 7″ comes your way today via 12XU.

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Drifting Psych Pop from Golden Daze

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goldenBe it the cover or the song itself, everything about this track screams psychedelic nod. Lucky for Golden Daze the execution is pretty spot on, and has just enough of a hint of pop accessibility to push it into my stream of listening. There’s a steady drift to the track, coming in all directions from the vocals, guitar sound and the song’s overall pacing. Something pleasant breaks through the song in the end, begging you to play it again and again, which is always a positive sign for any listener. Look for the group’s debut self-titled album on February 19th via Autumn Tone.

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