ACL 2019 Preview: Must See Late Night Shows

We’re one –that’s right just one– week away from this year’s edition of the Austin City Limits Music Festival. While this year’s fest has snuck up on us rather quickly, it comes as no surprise that the late night bills around town are a solid addition to this years lineup. Whether you’re hitting up just a day or two of the Fest proper at Zilker, want to catch your faves in a more intimate venue, or would rather just see a few nights of music and want to skip the fest, The Official 2019 Late Night Shows have some great options to amplify your festin’ this year. Healthy reminder to scoop your tickets now, as most will likely sell out.

Read my picks after the jump.

Gary Clark Jr. with Jackie Venson @ Stubb’s -10/4

If you’re feeling like you need a bit of guitar to fill your Thursday night, look no further than the Gary Clark Jr. / Jackie Venson combination going down at Stubb’s. This one is happening before the Festival gates even open, and we all know that Thursday is really just Friday Jr, so kick off your ACL weekend a bit early with two locals who know how to shred, and shred well.

IDLES with Sailor Poon @ The Mohawk – 10/5

This one is sold out, so you better get to scrambling, text your connections, and figure out a way in. IDLES are on my list of bands to catch at Zilker Park, but their dark post-punk will sound even better in the dark and illuminated properly on our beloved Mohawk stage. Expect a rowdy crowd, potentially a pit to open up a few times, and generally a lot of good vibes from this raucous set. Plus you get locals Sailor Poon opening up the night with their individual brand of post-punk. Shimmy your way into this one.

Golden Dawn Arkestra (Record Release) @ Stubb’s -10/5

If you’re crying about not being able to get into IDLES, don’t fret, as Saturday 10/5 has a ton of options for you. Pop over to Stubb’s to catch the record release show for locals, Golden Dawn Arkestra, who will likely be rejoicing over the fact that they have a stage big enough to fit their many members and ornate costumes. These Austinites have picked up a steady following for their intergalactic astral jazz creations that will transport you to another dimension all while getting you to shake it.

Julia Jacklin with Christian Lee Hutson @ The Parish – 10/12

I can’t stress the importance of seeing Julia Jacklin and her impeccable vocals live. I mean, have you even listened to the incredible album, Crushing, that she put out this year? If not, all you need to do is listen to a track or two before you are completely enamored with everything that Jacklin touches. The Parish will be the perfect venue to hear her delicate tunes, and I’m sure her impeccable vocals will sound even better in this proper setting.