Exclusive Premiere: Balmorhea Single Remastered

balmorheaThere’s been a lot of press lately for Austin’s Balmorhea, as the band readies a new 7″ on Western Vinyl.  But, not only do you get to hear some new songs, but the label is also re-releasing a remastered version of their self-titled masterpiece.  The song below, “Baleen Morning,” was already a beautiful piece, but the remastering touch ups has added even more power and emotion to the band’s construction; I love how you can hear the buzz of the strummed guitar sings.  There’s a beautiful ornate quality that really shines through with the remastering, reminding listeners how incredibly lucky we are to have a band crafting such music.  You can pick up the remastered version (as well as the new 7″) HERE.  And look for a chance to win tickets to the group’s show at Central Presbyterian on 10/24.

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Show Preview: Toms World Sight Day @ Toms Store (10/9)

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Date 10/9/14
Location TOMS Store
Doors All day!
Tickets Free!

Always being the good samaritans, TOMS is giving back once again for an event in Austin today.  The idea is to bring awareness to all those who suffer from blindness or any other type of vision problem with a pop up art show and live music at the TOMS austin location.  The music gallery will be running all day and features Instagram photos from fans of the brand (use hashtag #givesight to be a part).  Music begins at 6:30 and features local DJ Mel along with acoustic sets from The Wind + The Wave and Matt Mondanille (Ducktails/Real Estate).  Give back fools!

Austin Spotlight: Polio Club Blew My Mind

10704175_10205008146462144_3837601728872752832_nSo, amidst all the ACL hubbub of last weekend, I was introduced to a pretty solid act I hadn’t really gotten a chance to know, and I’m hooked: Polio Club.  I caught their set on Friday night over at Hotel Vegas as I went to catch The Stevens (who killed it!). Even as I was exhausted, I was really taken aback by the group’s sound.  It’s definitely got sort of a no-wave art rock sound; I could also make a comparison to the earlier grooves of The Rapture, only spun in a more artistic manner.  As of right now, they don’t have too much recorded, other than a few great demos, so I thought I’d get them on your radar early…that way you can plan on keeping an eye about town for this group; I’ll also make sure you know when their next gig pops up.

 

Show Preview: Dark Blue @ Beerland (10.2)

ceremonyThe town is about to be billowing over with traffic; you know you’re going to be filled with angst, especially if you live near Barton Springs Rd, so why not get that anger out with a really rad rock n’ roll show at Beerland on Thursday.  I’ve covered a lot of the tunes from Dark Blue, who are sort of a lesser-known super group of sorts (Paint it Black, Strand of Oaks, Ceremony); their music is this darkened rock n’ roll that’s had me hooked for weeks.  But, if that’s not enough to get you out, then just look at the incredible line-up featuring great local acts Total Abuse, Video and Xetas; there’s not a better bill in town, I promise.  Check out Pure Reality below, the new LP from Dark Blue.

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Austin Spotlight: New Single from Genuine Leather

genwineThe last we heard from Genuine Leather was the group’s second album, Losers, but they’re back today with a crisp bit of guitar pop to help make your day.  If, like me, you love a good bit of guitar work, then this is going to be the perfect song for you.  They’re definitely  nostalgically leaning riffs, with a bit of crunch working to aid the hook in the vocal chorus.  There’s no word yet as to whether this single is a one-off or if it’s prepping for the group’s next release…expect us to keep you updated on that front in the near future.

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Austin Spotlight: Boy + Kite Prep Premiere New Song

Boy plus Kite BWBoy + Kite have been on our radar for some time, though tragedy unfortunately struck the band, forcing them into a temporarily hiatus.  This new EP, and definitely this new single, should propel them into the consciousness of Austin music fans, and hopefully beyond.  I was drawn to the darkness that came with the subtle vocals at the beginning of the tune, but the hook in the chorus is what ultimately sold me on the track.  It offers a nice dosage of pop that’s brightened by its immediate contrast to the song’s softer moments. They’ll be releasing their Blueprint EP on October 21st, followed by greater things we expect to hear in the future.

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Show Preview: Alex Napping Album Release @ Cheer Ups – TONIGHT!

AlexNapping_VineetGordhandas-1It’s Friday, and you need something to do.  You’re in Austin, looking for a great show.  Problem solved, you should be at Cheer Up Charlies for the anticipated release of Alex Napping‘s debut LP, courtesy of Punctum Records.  It’d be easy to just say, go see Alex Cohen play; she and the band are great.  And that’s very true.  But, in order to draw a solid crowd, you’ve got to have some great opening acts, like Big Bill, Soft Swells and Lowin.  Big Bill‘s oddball garage rock never fails to impress.  Soft Swells are on the trustworthy label, Modern Outsider (local label!).  Lowin, well, let’s just say this is one of the next big things to get out of Austin. Solid bill from start to finish.  Get there at 8 in time for things to kick off!

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Busy Thursday Night in Austin

ramThere’s really only one show you NEED to go to.  That’s the Ramesh album release over at the Belmont, which kicks off at 7 PM.  I’ll be there, smiling, and hopefully selling LPs.  But, for those of you who aren’t into Ramesh, which I completely respect, there’s tons going on tomorrow night, so here’s some places you might want to find yourself.  Read more

Austin Spotlight: Soft Vision

artworks-000088551364-c4p52u-t500x500_440_440Prior to today, I knew almost nothing about up and coming Austin band Soft Visions.  After a little bit of research here and there, I see that the band have only been around for a couple of years and are trying hard to make a name for themselves in this busy town.  Today I’m sharing with you their latest single called “Feel it Coming” to hopefully aid them in their quest for local takeover.  The track has this great washed out, hazy sort of feel to it that is enhanced by the bellowing vocals of Bradley Barr over his female counterpart Kelly Winchester.  It’s something to enjoy.

Pick up a new EP from the group on Acoustic Division on October 20th.

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