Show Review: Stephin Merritt @ Central Presbyterian (5/8)

When you’re given the opportunity to catch Stephin Merritt, you better believe I’m going to jump at the chance.  I’ve been obsessed with Stephin’s work for close to two decades, marveling at his wit, and his output.  He brought along fellow Magnetic Fields member Sam Davol for accompaniment, packed folks into the Central Presbyterian Church and treated us to an evening of tunes from his catalog, spanning A to Z.

Read on for my thoughts, and for photos from Brian Gray.

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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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Shearwater @ Central Presbyterian Church (1/15)

Date 1/15/11
Location Central Presbyterian Church
Doors 900p
Tickets $15 @ Frontgate

Local indie giants Shearwater have a very special show planned for Saturday night in Austin at Central Presbyterian Church.  The Austin band plans on playing all three of their albums from the last five years in their entirety.  Needless to say, this would be an incredible chance to catch a show from the band if you haven’t already.  Make sure you get there and get in line early, as shows at the CPC are usually seated on a first come first serve basis.

[audio: https://austintownhall.com/wp-content/uploads/2010/01/shearwater_black_eyes.mp3]

Download: Shearwater – Black Eyes [MP3]

Balmorhea @ Central Presbyterian Church (2/19)

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Date 2/19/10
Location Central Presbyterian
Doors 8pm
Tickets $12 from Waterloo/EOE

A unique and interesting show opportunity comes to Central Presbyterian Church on Friday with a set by Western Vinyl locals Balmorhea.  To make the show even more interesting, Damien Jurado will be opening things up at 9pm.  Tickets for this one are limited and only available at Waterloo Records or End of an Ear.  Some tickets can be bought at the door if a sell out doesn’t happen prior to Friday night.  Here’s the band’s most recent single “Bowsprit” which appears on the band’s recent album hitting stores now, Constellations.

[audio: https://austintownhall.com/wp-content/uploads/2010/02/02-Bowsprit-1.mp3]

Download: Balmorhea – Bowsprit [MP3]

1/21 Lissie @ Central Presbyterian Church

lissieGiven the set up and venue, professional coverage of an event like Lissie opening for City & Colour at the Central Presbyterian Church can be a bit difficult.  Not that the venue isn’t great (it is pretty sweet), it’s just that giving such an event proper coverage can be tricky.  No professional photography, limited set times, etc. can all be problems.  Regardless, the highlight of the evening for me was easily the voice of folk singer Lissie resonating throughout a crowded church house with incredible acoustics.  Follow the jump to read more.

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City & Colour @ Central Presbyterian (1/21)

2007-p_city-colour

Date 1/21/10
Location Central Presbyterian Church
Doors 7pm
Tickets Sold Out Suckahs

Dallas Green, otherwise known as City & Colour, is playing an intimate show at Central Presbyterian Church on Thursday night.  To make the show more enticing, our new favorite singer Lissie will be providing opening support around 8pm.  We’re probably more excited about that lovely lady and her music so we’ll drop one of her songs below.  I suggest trying a scalper since the show is sold out.

[audio: https://austintownhall.com/wp-content/uploads/2009/10/01-Little-Lovin-1.mp3]

Download: Lissie – Little Lovin’ [MP3]