This is fine.
Tons of shows going on this weekend. So much so, that I decided to break it up into Friday vs Sat./Sun. Always keep in mind, these are just my personal tastes, and a little healthy suggestion, but if you’re a music nerd, go find something to watch…tons of other places with tons of great music. Click on to find some highlights for Friday evening. Read more
It’s been a really rad week for Austin music, whether you like the heavier side such as Flesh Lights or the poppier side of indie rock, such as this new tune from Young Tongue. Me? I fucking like both, so deal with it. I’m particularly fond of this new track, especially the way that band’s two vocalists work together to provide a rich tapestry of melody that stands in contrast to the darker work of the instrumentation that’s present, particularly the post rock guitar chords. They’re heading out rather soon on a big little tour through the Midwest, then turning left. It’s all part of the celebratory for their debut, Death Rattle, which comes out on November 11th via Raw Paw/Punctum Records.
Download: Young Tongue – Heavy Metal Thunder [MP3]
RayRay first introduced us to Austin’s Tamarron back in early 2013. At the time, I dug it, though I will admit that it was standard fare good indie rock, nothing spectacular, though nothing poor. But, with their recently released Moon Wavves EP, the group seems to really be crafting their own sound, broadening their horizons and furthering sonic dimensions. They continue to add little doses of texture here and there that completely move their sound in a more psychedelic pop direction; they add all these nice little flourishes that really flesh out their sound. You can grab the new EP for NYOP, so I suggest you get to it.
Download: Tamarron – Saucy [MP3]
| Date | Tuesday, October 14th |
|---|---|
| Location | The Parish |
| Doors | 7:00 PM |
| Tickets | $15 from the Parish |
I know every one is milling about trying to get their hands on those Widespread Panic tickets, but if you didn’t luck out there, you’ve got a better option waiting in the wings. Perfume Genius will be bringing his intimate sounds to the perfect setting: the Parish stage. Now, while his early work was quite solemn and based around piano ballads, his newest album, Too Bright, offers a broader spectrum of sounds. There’s still this brilliantly personal approach to the songwriting, but the sound has blossomed into a huge pop opus. Those not in attendance will regret their choice, as this will clearly be the rage at the office water cooler on Wednesday morning. Matteah Baim will be opening the evening up.
Download: Perfume Genius – All Waters [MP3]
Our first listen to the newest work of Flesh Lights (Just About Due) had this striking power pop sound that definitely grabbed our attention. But, their new single, “Middle Age” is a blistering tune, both in its sonic quality and it’s verbal attack on “middle age youth.” The guitar work here is sublime, especially when the solos blast through your speakers; I’m also partial to the call and response vocals that come through the chorus. If you’re looking for a rock n’ roll record that never stays in one place, then you better get your hands on Free Yourself; it hits streets on November 4th via 12XU. Seriously. You’ll hate yourself if you don’t buy this LP.
Yes, ACL gets all the headlines around these parts, but there’s still plenty of great music to be had, so why not head out on the town and catch a good old fashioned gig. I mean, it’s Texas/OU weekend, so the streets are likely to be less crowded…and there’s really no other excuse for why you shouldn’t catch a good act. Look below for our highlights, including a must attend Sunday night show at Vegas; I’ll be there for sure! Read more
There’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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| 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!
So, 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.
The 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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