ATX Show Preview: Adam and the Cola Kids vs Ramesh (2.5)

RameshTONIGHT! Man. What to do? There’s two incredible shows going down, and it’s hard for me to pick just one; maybe I’ll just scramble back and forth between the two. Take your pick…classic indie pop or garage-influenced power pop…either way you’re going to win if you go out tonight.  So, you can hit up Holy Mountain for the softer side of things.  The Columnist, Charm Bracelet and Missions all open things up for Ramesh.  I love Ramesh, as a person and a performer; he manages a great stage presence that’s as inviting as it is exciting.  We even helped released his debut LP last year, so pick one up if your in attendance.  But, I also adore the work of Warm Soda and Those Howlings, who are opening for Adam and the Cola Kids at Hotel Vegas. Those Howlings will use this as a release to their new album. So pick a show, either show, but go out and have fun kids.

[audio:https://austintownhall.com/wp-content/uploads/2011/09/RAMESH-The-King.mp3] [audio:https://austintownhall.com/wp-content/uploads/2013/02/06-Waiting-For-Your-Call.mp3]

Show Review: Zola Jesus @ Red 7 (02.03)

Zola JesusAfter a dreary and wet Tuesday, there was a last minute change in venues and door times from The Mohawk, but if anything, this seemed to draw more people to the warmth and comfort of Red 7. The eclectic hodgepodge sound of opener Deradoorian served as an interesting juxtaposition to the drama of Zola Jesus‘ pop music.

Read on to see how the night unfolded and see some pics from the ever talented B.Gray.

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Austin Spotlight: Xetas Break Out

XetasHonestly, there wasn’t an Austin label that kicked as much ass in 2014 as 12XU…they had three of our Top 10 Austin LPs.  So, anytime the label offers something you’ve gotta take note, especially when it comes to local act Xetas.  If you’ve caught their live set then you’ve probably been warned, but this single from their upcoming The Redeemer LP is one of those tracks that manages to capture the band’s live fury, whilst still boasting of solid production value. It’s a track with a  breakneck pace, with slaughtering guitar riffs that cut through your speakers. I figure there’s only a matter of time before a band with such tenacity and killer licks breaks into the consciousness beyond Austin. Look for the LP in stores at the end of February.

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Upcoming Hip-Hop Show: Wale @ Emo’s 2/6/15

Wale-Jerry-Seinfeld-ComplexMMG rapper Wale will be headlining Emo’s this Friday, February 6. The stop will be part of Wale’s Simply Nothing Tour, promoting his upcoming fourth album, The Album About Nothing. Wale’s career-long deliberate references to the TV show Seinfeld come with whole-hearted approval from Jerry Seinfeld himself, which says a lot about Wale’s talent and artistry. While Friday’s concert will no doubt be a showcase of Wale’s upcoming album, it would be safe to assume there will also be some songs performed from his Festivus mixtape that appropriately dropped on December 23. A highlight from that mixtape is the Janet Jackson-sampled “Girls On Drugs”. Festivus can be streamed or downloaded for free via Audiomack. “Girls On Drugs” is below.

Austin Spotlight: Jam the New Sleep Good Album

sleepytimeAs we reported last year, Sleep Good has been hard at work on his new effort, and it’s finally going to see the light of day.  It’s predominantly electronically infused ambient music, but don’t let that lead you in the wrong direction.  Just imagine Black Moth Super Rainbow early on, yet slowed down with subtle touches of accessibility for every listener.  Dream Dealer is the perfect listen to put on while you do work around the house or party in your friends backyard.  There’s so many delicate moments that will draw you in that you won’t want to skip towards the next song.  Here’s to your Friday and drifting through your day.

ATX Weekend Show Spotlight: Leon Bridges, Yonatan Gat + More

austinmusicIt’s a really good weekend for shows, and it’s good to see the scene heating back up after the Winter seasonings. Friday night is sure to be the highlight of the weekend, but look to some other rad shows you can attend about town. These are just a few of my suggestions, so if you’re not feeling what I’m into, feel free to look up your own gig to attend.  Also…it’s clear Leon Bridges is blowing up.  Read more

ATX Show Preview: The Paul Collins Beat @ Hotel Vegas (TONIGHT!!!)

paul-collins-beat-record-fair-650x800It’s Thursday, and we should rejoice that our weather here in Austin has been pretty phenomenal while others are burrowing beneath blankets of snow.  So, celebrate by heading out to Hotel Vegas tonight to catch The Paul Collins Beat.  Paul was one a member of power-poppers The Nerves, not to mention this new group The Beat (renamed due to some English band). But, I implore you to get there early as the opening acts feature some of my local (and regional) favorites.  I can’t tell you many more times how much you need to see Jonly Bonly, let alone buy their album, Put Together.  Then there’s the Ugly Beats, who consistently win fans all about town.  And, just before Paul takes the stage, you’ll be treated to The Rich Hands…they’re a San Antonio act who we’ve backed since they first walked through our doors.  This looks like one of those shows everyone will be talking about at the water cooler, so don’t miss out.

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ATX Show Spotlight: Deep Cuts + Shivery Shakes @ Cheer Ups (1/29)

showIt’s that time of year, when things start to pick up across town as we warm up to SXSW.  There’s a great deal of shows this week, but I’d like to encourage you all to hit up Cheer Up Charlies to catch some local Texas acts that I guarantee will bring joy to your life.  You’ve got the impressive Deep Cuts folks from Houston, who are growing increasingly popular.  Shivery Shakes, who released their Three Waves and a Shake LP on ATH Records, will help keep your spirits up.  Plus Modrag and Casual Strangers intend to get you there early, as they’re both extremely worthy of your attendance.  There’s no cover and the show starts at 9 PM.  Come enjoy the weather and the good vibes.

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Austin Spotlight: New Big Bill EP

Big BillWho in Austin isn’t on the Big Bill train?  You? What are you waiting for? New tunes? Well, congrats friends, the local Austin rockers have completed their new release, titled The Second Bill, and it’s all yours for the jamming today. I’ve loved the group’s live performances for some time, and I feel that you can sense the energy of those shows in the songs you’ll hear streaming below; there’s garage guitar stabs and a rambunctious quality that have won the hearts of Austin show-goers (and beyond) for some time.  Sit back and rock out, then go pick the EP from the group. I recommend “I Wanna Do Evil.”

Fun Rocker From Gal Pals

UntitledThis new jam entitled “Punisher”, from former Austin based lady rock group Gal Pals, is an easy one to get into.  At its core the song is a punk rocker with some pop elements thrown in to keep things catchy.  We will forgive you for moving to L.A. and confess that we still think you are great.  Stay out of the sun.

Pick up the Gal Pals debut album, Velvet Rut, on February 24th via Papercup Music.

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