Alright, so I've already told you about some cool official, and unofficial after-shows. We've also broken down some of the toughest decisions regarding bands playing simultaneously on different stages. So, here's the part where I tell you my choices for the whole effing day! I'm going to break it down in to two strategies. The first ACL Fest strategy involves camping out at one stage all day so that you can get a good spot in the crowd. If that's how you want to rock the fest on Friday, then I recommend you hang out at the AMD stage. I wouldn't, necessarily enjoy every single artist who will be playing that stage but it has the highest ratio of bands I care about to bands I couldn't care less about.
The second strategy involves lots of traversing Zilker park. That's the strategy I'll most likely be partaking in. So let's break it down minute by minute. Personally, I'll be waiting tables from 6:00am-2:00pm so I won't be at the Fest as soon as the gates open but I'll break it down as if I would be just for you.
You'll want to start at the Zync Card stage at 11:45 to catch Vonnegutt. They are featured on the latest Big Boi single and they have a very high break-out act potential. Their sound is very MTV-friendly and I feel like the tweens are going to love them. Think Gym Class Heroes.
Vonnegutt - Bright Eyes video via YouTube
Around 12:20 you should hit the Austin Ventures stage to check out Charlie Mars. It will be quite the jump in genre from Vonnegutt but isn't that what a festival is all about? Going from hip-hip-pop to sensitive-singer-songwriter simply by walking a few steps?
Charlie Mars - Like a Bird, Like a Plane video via YouTube
You'll probably have to leave C. Mars set before he is completely through to catch the Soft Pack back at the Zync Card stage. They go on from 1:00-2:00.
the Soft Pack - C'Mon video via YouTube
From 2:00-3:00 you'll want to slide on over to the Budweiser stage to catch the Mountain Goats beautiful, pastoral, folk-rock.
the Mountain Goats - This Year video via YouTube
We'll be back at the Zync Card stage by 3:00 to catch Bloggy favs, Girls. In this Blogger's opinion they deserve a time slot closer to sunset. I mean have you heard the song Laura? It's effing genius!
Girls - Laura video via YouTube
At 4:00 it's all the way over to the AMD stage in time for the Black Keys. I'm excited to see how these 2 dudes work a big-ass festival crowd. Will we feel the sexual energy all the way in the back (so to speak)?
the Black Keys - Tighten Up video via YouTube
The 5:00 o'clock time slot is a tough decision for me, as I mentioned in a previous post but I'm going to vote we head back to the Zync Card stage to see the Sword blow the minds of many, many local fans and hopefully lots of tourist-types too. These guys are local heroes so I expect this stage will have quite the crowd by 5pm.
the Sword - How Heavy This Axe video via YouTube
Speaking of local heroes, after the Sword are through we head back to the AMD stage in time for Spoon's 6pm set.
Spoon - Written In Reverse video via YouTube
At 7:00 alt-rock legends, Sonic Youth will take to the Honda stage, so you know where I'll be.
Sonic Youth - 100% video via YouTube
This last decision might be controversial but I vote we check out the Strokes at the AMD stage. Phish will be starting their headlining set at the same time on the Budweiser stage but chances are once the Strokes have played every song they've ever written +2 covers, Phish will just be approaching the 3rd song of their set. In otherwords you can catch both acts...or you could leave the festival grounds before all the dirty hippies clog up the public transit system. That's your call.
the Strokes - Reptilia video via YouTube
So, there you have it. Those are Bloggy's picks for day 1 of the fest, enjoy and I'll see you there!
Phish - You Enjoy Myself (part 2) video via YouTube
By the way, is anyone else bothered by the names of these stages? I would be will to pay $20 more per ticket if they weren't corporately named. Sure makes me appreciate FunFunFun Fest naming their stages after colors. This post was brought to you via these ads ---------->
FunFunFun Fest - 2009 Re-Cap video via YouTube
Read more!
Thursday, October 7, 2010
Wednesday, October 6, 2010
Band Vs. Band at ACL Fest
A festival like ACL, which takes place in a central location won't have as many tough choices as say, SXSW but there are multiple stages so you're still going to have to make some tough decisions every now and again. I'll be posting my picks for each day of the fest the day before each day...does that make sense? Firstly though I want to highlight some of the tougher choices when making your picks this year. For me, Saturday has the most conflicts but I'll try to go chronologically.
The first hipster music conflict I notice of the festival is the pitting of Miike Snow against Girls. For me, I definitely am leaning towards Girls since I'm such a big fan of theirs HOWEVER I have already seen them play before whereas Miike Snow I have not seen. Miike Snow played several times during SXSW, even at some events I attended but they were never playing while I was in attendance. So, I guess it comes down to whether you want to rock out or electro out? Dance out? Pop out? Not really sure how I would classify the Snow sound.
Miike Snow - Silvia video via YouTube
The next major conflict for Friday is, Beach House Vs. local metal heroes, The Sword. These artists are on complete opposite ends of the musical spectrum and while I adore Beach House especially their latest LP, Teen Dream, the Austinite in me says I have to support The Sword. Besides, I really don't think the Nyquil-pop of Beach House is well-suited for the festival experience.
The Sword - Tres Brujas video via YouTube
The final conflict of Saturday pits the old-guard of alt--rock against the new guard of blog-rock. The legendary, Sonic Youth are playing the same time as Vampire Weekend. Do you want to rock or do you want to twee-rock? Personally, I had the chance to see VW before their first LP on the Mohawk's inside stage and I don't see anything topping that. However, I will (hopefully(*fingers crossed)) be in attendance when Sonic Youth tapes their Austin City Limits Television performance Thursday night. In otherwords by Saturday I will have seen both artists. In either case, you have to pick the legends simply because you can. Sorry, vee dubs, maybe next year?
Sonic Youth - Sacred Trickster video via YouTube
Saturday has lots of conflicts so I'm going to keep it more brief. The conflicts start early (12:15p) when First Aid Kit and the Very Best take stage simultaneously. I vote the Very Best based on having fun at a festival. Also, it's quite likely we'll see Ezra Koenig of Vampire Weekend at the Very Best's set as he lends vocals to the title track from their LP.
the Very Best - Warm Heart of Africa video via YouTube
The always handsome, Pete Yorn will be playing while BOTH Ninjasonik and Two Door Cinema Club perform. I'll probably skip Ninjasonik despite really enjoying them, simply because I caught them at SXSW this year.
Ninjasonik - Negative Thinking in Tight Pants video via YouTube
4:30p-5:30p on Saturday is going to be the toughest hour of the whole festival. I literally like EVERY artists playing at that time. Silversun Pickups, Broken Bells, Local Natives, AND Dan Black are all playing at the same time?!?! Damn, that's going to be a tough decision. I have actually seen all of those artists already this year but that doesn't mean I don't want to see them all again?!?! I want Local Natives to get a good crowd, but SSPU were soooo effing good and a festival is really where they shine. I'm not going to pick a horse in this race, I'm going to just let the fest lead me.
Dan Black - U + Me = video via YouTube
That's not the end of Saturday's conflicts though, not even close. We've got, Gogol Bordello playing at the same time as LCD Soundsytem.
LCD Soundsytem - I Can Change video via YouTube
Then at 7:30p on Saturday both Matt & Kim and Deadmau5 will take to their respective stages.
Matt and Kim - Silver Tiles video via YouTube
Finally M.I.A. and Muse are playing at the same time. Personally, I have seen M.I.A. twice (on here first tour(natch)) and I have never seen Muse so I'll most likely be checking out Muse. For you, who knows? Might be a tougher call to make. On the bright side, Muse's set time is 30 minutes longer than M.I.A.'s, also her new material pretty much sucks soooo...
Muse - Sunburn video via YouTube
On to Sunday, the Lord's day, lucky for us there are far fewer conflicts on the fest's final day. Unfortunately (or fortunately) MOST of the conflicts are early in the day when it SHOULD be easier to move from stage to stage. There are THREE Bloggy favs all playing at the same time between 11:30a-12:30p on Saturday. Two local favs, TV Torso and Shearwater will both be performing while Warpaint performs at another stage.
Shearwater - Hidden Lakes video via YouTube
A little later you'll have to choose between Ted Leo or White Rabbits.
Ted Leo - A Bottle of Buckie video via YouTube
Finally the toughest VS. of the day, will you choose Band of Horses? Or would you rather see the Flaming Lips? I did hear a nasty little rumor that the Lips and Spoon swapped slots, which would mean Spoon and BOH would be playing at the same time. To either scenario I say, dang.
the Flaming Lips - The Sparrow Looks Up at the Machine video via YouTube
So those are the time conflicts as I see them, stay tuned for the next few days and I'll break down who you should see and/or where you might see me at the fest.
Read more!
The first hipster music conflict I notice of the festival is the pitting of Miike Snow against Girls. For me, I definitely am leaning towards Girls since I'm such a big fan of theirs HOWEVER I have already seen them play before whereas Miike Snow I have not seen. Miike Snow played several times during SXSW, even at some events I attended but they were never playing while I was in attendance. So, I guess it comes down to whether you want to rock out or electro out? Dance out? Pop out? Not really sure how I would classify the Snow sound.
Miike Snow - Silvia video via YouTube
The next major conflict for Friday is, Beach House Vs. local metal heroes, The Sword. These artists are on complete opposite ends of the musical spectrum and while I adore Beach House especially their latest LP, Teen Dream, the Austinite in me says I have to support The Sword. Besides, I really don't think the Nyquil-pop of Beach House is well-suited for the festival experience.
The Sword - Tres Brujas video via YouTube
The final conflict of Saturday pits the old-guard of alt--rock against the new guard of blog-rock. The legendary, Sonic Youth are playing the same time as Vampire Weekend. Do you want to rock or do you want to twee-rock? Personally, I had the chance to see VW before their first LP on the Mohawk's inside stage and I don't see anything topping that. However, I will (hopefully(*fingers crossed)) be in attendance when Sonic Youth tapes their Austin City Limits Television performance Thursday night. In otherwords by Saturday I will have seen both artists. In either case, you have to pick the legends simply because you can. Sorry, vee dubs, maybe next year?
Sonic Youth - Sacred Trickster video via YouTube
Saturday has lots of conflicts so I'm going to keep it more brief. The conflicts start early (12:15p) when First Aid Kit and the Very Best take stage simultaneously. I vote the Very Best based on having fun at a festival. Also, it's quite likely we'll see Ezra Koenig of Vampire Weekend at the Very Best's set as he lends vocals to the title track from their LP.
the Very Best - Warm Heart of Africa video via YouTube
The always handsome, Pete Yorn will be playing while BOTH Ninjasonik and Two Door Cinema Club perform. I'll probably skip Ninjasonik despite really enjoying them, simply because I caught them at SXSW this year.
Ninjasonik - Negative Thinking in Tight Pants video via YouTube
4:30p-5:30p on Saturday is going to be the toughest hour of the whole festival. I literally like EVERY artists playing at that time. Silversun Pickups, Broken Bells, Local Natives, AND Dan Black are all playing at the same time?!?! Damn, that's going to be a tough decision. I have actually seen all of those artists already this year but that doesn't mean I don't want to see them all again?!?! I want Local Natives to get a good crowd, but SSPU were soooo effing good and a festival is really where they shine. I'm not going to pick a horse in this race, I'm going to just let the fest lead me.
Dan Black - U + Me = video via YouTube
That's not the end of Saturday's conflicts though, not even close. We've got, Gogol Bordello playing at the same time as LCD Soundsytem.
LCD Soundsytem - I Can Change video via YouTube
Then at 7:30p on Saturday both Matt & Kim and Deadmau5 will take to their respective stages.
Matt and Kim - Silver Tiles video via YouTube
Finally M.I.A. and Muse are playing at the same time. Personally, I have seen M.I.A. twice (on here first tour(natch)) and I have never seen Muse so I'll most likely be checking out Muse. For you, who knows? Might be a tougher call to make. On the bright side, Muse's set time is 30 minutes longer than M.I.A.'s, also her new material pretty much sucks soooo...
Muse - Sunburn video via YouTube
On to Sunday, the Lord's day, lucky for us there are far fewer conflicts on the fest's final day. Unfortunately (or fortunately) MOST of the conflicts are early in the day when it SHOULD be easier to move from stage to stage. There are THREE Bloggy favs all playing at the same time between 11:30a-12:30p on Saturday. Two local favs, TV Torso and Shearwater will both be performing while Warpaint performs at another stage.
Shearwater - Hidden Lakes video via YouTube
A little later you'll have to choose between Ted Leo or White Rabbits.
Ted Leo - A Bottle of Buckie video via YouTube
Finally the toughest VS. of the day, will you choose Band of Horses? Or would you rather see the Flaming Lips? I did hear a nasty little rumor that the Lips and Spoon swapped slots, which would mean Spoon and BOH would be playing at the same time. To either scenario I say, dang.
the Flaming Lips - The Sparrow Looks Up at the Machine video via YouTube
So those are the time conflicts as I see them, stay tuned for the next few days and I'll break down who you should see and/or where you might see me at the fest.
Read more!
Tuesday, October 5, 2010
ACL Week Aftershow Picks
Is it me or are the "after-shows" starting earlier and early every year of ACL Fest? They used to happen after the show, now you can catch some of the headline names from the fest as early as Wednesday night. Some of the best after-shows this year are the ones that aren't affiliated with the fest at all. I'm sure the 3 Charlies are loving that. Although, the most pre of all the pre-shows is an official performance by the Strokes happening at Stubb's, which is sold-out incidentally. Don't let that deter you though, the Pavement show I saw last week was also sold-out and if you recall I purchased a scalped ticket for less than half the face value. My advice is to wait until the headliner has begun playing and then offer the scalper a 20 spot, then can take it or leave it but if they give you a hard time just remind them that the show has started and see how they react. Worst-case scenario, you listen from the top deck of that parking structure across the street from Stubb's, ain't nothin' wrong with that.
the Strokes - NYC Cops video via YouTube
Thursday night is the first night with lots of really good official (pre)after-shows including, but not limited to, Spoon, Neon Indian and many, many more. I want to highlight First Aid Kit though, because they are playing the fest but their sound will be much better suited for Stubb's inside stage, which is where you can catch them Thursday night. Tickets for that show are only $10 bucks and are still available as of the writing of this post.
First Aid Kit - Tiger Mountain Peasant Song video via YouTube
Other than that, I'd go unofficial Thursday night and see Talib Kweli at the Scoot Inn. Do I really need to explain why? Kweli is a lyrical genius and any opportunity we have to hear his words live is a blessing. If he never did anything other than the Black Star album with Mos Def he would STILL be a legend. Tickets for Kweli are ALSO available as of the writing of this post. Props to my friends and comrades over at Knuckle Rumbler for that booking.
Blackstar - Definition video via YouTube
Speaking of the KR kids, if you want to run into me Friday night, I'll be kickin it with the Knucks at another great booking for the Scoot, with Miss Amanda Blank. If you don't know who she is, it's time to get schooled, she is one of my favorite female emcee's. Her lyrics, are filthy, nimble and often hilarious to boot. You can still grab tickets for A. Blank at the Scoot Friday night and I recommend you do so.
Santigold - I'm a Lady (Diplo Remix) featuring Amanda Blank video via YouTube
For Saturday I want to highlight another small name from the fest, who you have probably never heard of but you probably will in the future. Beats Antique are playing the festival but they'll be playing very early in the day most likely to a small crowd. Their official after-show at Momo's is a great way to catch the band in a more intimate setting. Plus it will be a great story when they start to take off you can be that guy who saw them way back when, in that little hole in the wall club away from the Red River scene.
Beats Antique - Miss Levine video via YouTube
Sunday night, you tourists need to check out Austin post-rockers Markov, who will be opening for Rival Schools at Red 7. This show starts around the same time as the Eagles' ACL set so feel free to ditch Zilker and head downtown for some youthful rockers who are, shall we say, relevant? Seriously, how did the Eagles end up at ACL? I promise if I run in to them at the festival I will ask them for all of us, "Why are you here Don Henley?"
Markov - Rain Inside video via Nites Blog via YouTube
Holy crapezoid! Can't believe I forgot to mention the unofficial after-party happening Saturday night at Beauty Bar featuring, Bloggy favs, Sleigh Bells. I guess I kind of forgot about this show because it's going to be so effing hard to get into. The deal is, you have to RSVP for a chance to pay at the door. They are not selling tickets ahead of time so it's basically first come, first served. In otherwords this show is basically for the people who WON'T be attending the fest. I think most of us who will be at the fest have a very low probability of getting in the door. Lucky for us I already saw Sleigh Bells in March and shot this video. The downside is I was on stage and the monitor sound was terrible so you can't really hear the vocals. C'est la vie.
Sleigh Bells - Treats video via YouTube
Read more!
the Strokes - NYC Cops video via YouTube
Thursday night is the first night with lots of really good official (pre)after-shows including, but not limited to, Spoon, Neon Indian and many, many more. I want to highlight First Aid Kit though, because they are playing the fest but their sound will be much better suited for Stubb's inside stage, which is where you can catch them Thursday night. Tickets for that show are only $10 bucks and are still available as of the writing of this post.
First Aid Kit - Tiger Mountain Peasant Song video via YouTube
Other than that, I'd go unofficial Thursday night and see Talib Kweli at the Scoot Inn. Do I really need to explain why? Kweli is a lyrical genius and any opportunity we have to hear his words live is a blessing. If he never did anything other than the Black Star album with Mos Def he would STILL be a legend. Tickets for Kweli are ALSO available as of the writing of this post. Props to my friends and comrades over at Knuckle Rumbler for that booking.
Blackstar - Definition video via YouTube
Speaking of the KR kids, if you want to run into me Friday night, I'll be kickin it with the Knucks at another great booking for the Scoot, with Miss Amanda Blank. If you don't know who she is, it's time to get schooled, she is one of my favorite female emcee's. Her lyrics, are filthy, nimble and often hilarious to boot. You can still grab tickets for A. Blank at the Scoot Friday night and I recommend you do so.
Santigold - I'm a Lady (Diplo Remix) featuring Amanda Blank video via YouTube
For Saturday I want to highlight another small name from the fest, who you have probably never heard of but you probably will in the future. Beats Antique are playing the festival but they'll be playing very early in the day most likely to a small crowd. Their official after-show at Momo's is a great way to catch the band in a more intimate setting. Plus it will be a great story when they start to take off you can be that guy who saw them way back when, in that little hole in the wall club away from the Red River scene.
Beats Antique - Miss Levine video via YouTube
Sunday night, you tourists need to check out Austin post-rockers Markov, who will be opening for Rival Schools at Red 7. This show starts around the same time as the Eagles' ACL set so feel free to ditch Zilker and head downtown for some youthful rockers who are, shall we say, relevant? Seriously, how did the Eagles end up at ACL? I promise if I run in to them at the festival I will ask them for all of us, "Why are you here Don Henley?"
Markov - Rain Inside video via Nites Blog via YouTube
Holy crapezoid! Can't believe I forgot to mention the unofficial after-party happening Saturday night at Beauty Bar featuring, Bloggy favs, Sleigh Bells. I guess I kind of forgot about this show because it's going to be so effing hard to get into. The deal is, you have to RSVP for a chance to pay at the door. They are not selling tickets ahead of time so it's basically first come, first served. In otherwords this show is basically for the people who WON'T be attending the fest. I think most of us who will be at the fest have a very low probability of getting in the door. Lucky for us I already saw Sleigh Bells in March and shot this video. The downside is I was on stage and the monitor sound was terrible so you can't really hear the vocals. C'est la vie.
Sleigh Bells - Treats video via YouTube
Read more!
Thursday, September 30, 2010
Videos from Last Week
So, I feel like I have so much to plan, organize and write within the next week. By this point next week we will already be in the ACL Fest pre-show zone but to be honest, I'm not ready to write about all of that just yet. In year's past I have not attended the fest itself, focusing my energies on pre and after-shows but 2010 is the year of Bloggy and I'll be on the festival grounds making fun of Andy Langer every chance I get. Seriously A. Langer, Dawes? Wake me up when your favorite artists are finished performing.
In the meantime I wanted to show you some videos I shot last week. I'm going in reverse chronological order. I was sitting at home Tuesday night feeling ill, broke and generally bummed because I didn't acquire entry to the sold-out Pavement show at Stubb's. I was resigned to catching up on Tivo when I decided I couldn't sit at home and not try to see Pavement. I mean, how many more opportunities will I have to see them perform live? Not very many. So I grabbed 2 bucks for the bus and $20 for a ticket and headed downtown. For those of you who planned ahead you paid roughly $50 for your ticket. I arrived at Stubb's as Pavement was starting their first song, I spotted a scalper and asked him how much. It went something like this:
"Need a ticket?"
"Yeah, how much?"
"$50"
"I have $20"
"$30"
"Listen the show has started, do you want the $20 or not"
*Hands me ticket*
I was inside midway through their 2nd song. Unfortunately, I didn't really jockey for position to get good video so you can't really see the band in this footage, but they were up there, trust me. Also, take note of all the talking, how can people pay $50 for a once in a lifetime show just to talk through the whole effing set? STFU!!
Pavement - Grounded video via YouTube
Before, Pavement I caught Jamie Lidell at Antone's. I had seen him on his tour for Jim but his sound is much different on this Compass tour. In fact, not one member of the Jim band was in the Compass band. There was no horn section and things were more rock and less soul. Props to J. Lidell's new keys player though, that dude while not so easy on the eyes, was an amazing musician with some serious chops. All in all I would say the performance was less fun than during the last tour but much tighter with much greater musicianship. The song I captured was actually from the Jim LP but it has definitely been re-interpreted for his new band. If you don't watch the whole video you need to skip to the last minute that's where the amazing happens. *chills*
Jamie Lidell - Another Day video via YouTube
Opening for Jamie Lidell was up-and-coming artist, Twin Shadow. I received a preview copy of his forthcoming LP and I really dug it but the songs were even more impressive in a live setting. The tunes are already very atmospheric but in person they have a mesmerizing energy that really draws you in. The following video was the first song the band performed and it really won the crowd over. You could feel a definite shift in vibe from when the song began until when it ended. Make sure you catch Twin Shadow if and when they hit your town. I expect them back in Austin for SXSW 2011...or sooner.
Twin Shadow - Shooting Holes at the Moon video via YouTube
You can find one more video from Twin Shadow over on the Bloggy F*c*book. Look for all my ACL writing soon. See you at the fest?
Read more!
In the meantime I wanted to show you some videos I shot last week. I'm going in reverse chronological order. I was sitting at home Tuesday night feeling ill, broke and generally bummed because I didn't acquire entry to the sold-out Pavement show at Stubb's. I was resigned to catching up on Tivo when I decided I couldn't sit at home and not try to see Pavement. I mean, how many more opportunities will I have to see them perform live? Not very many. So I grabbed 2 bucks for the bus and $20 for a ticket and headed downtown. For those of you who planned ahead you paid roughly $50 for your ticket. I arrived at Stubb's as Pavement was starting their first song, I spotted a scalper and asked him how much. It went something like this:
"Need a ticket?"
"Yeah, how much?"
"$50"
"I have $20"
"$30"
"Listen the show has started, do you want the $20 or not"
*Hands me ticket*
I was inside midway through their 2nd song. Unfortunately, I didn't really jockey for position to get good video so you can't really see the band in this footage, but they were up there, trust me. Also, take note of all the talking, how can people pay $50 for a once in a lifetime show just to talk through the whole effing set? STFU!!
Pavement - Grounded video via YouTube
Before, Pavement I caught Jamie Lidell at Antone's. I had seen him on his tour for Jim but his sound is much different on this Compass tour. In fact, not one member of the Jim band was in the Compass band. There was no horn section and things were more rock and less soul. Props to J. Lidell's new keys player though, that dude while not so easy on the eyes, was an amazing musician with some serious chops. All in all I would say the performance was less fun than during the last tour but much tighter with much greater musicianship. The song I captured was actually from the Jim LP but it has definitely been re-interpreted for his new band. If you don't watch the whole video you need to skip to the last minute that's where the amazing happens. *chills*
Jamie Lidell - Another Day video via YouTube
Opening for Jamie Lidell was up-and-coming artist, Twin Shadow. I received a preview copy of his forthcoming LP and I really dug it but the songs were even more impressive in a live setting. The tunes are already very atmospheric but in person they have a mesmerizing energy that really draws you in. The following video was the first song the band performed and it really won the crowd over. You could feel a definite shift in vibe from when the song began until when it ended. Make sure you catch Twin Shadow if and when they hit your town. I expect them back in Austin for SXSW 2011...or sooner.
Twin Shadow - Shooting Holes at the Moon video via YouTube
You can find one more video from Twin Shadow over on the Bloggy F*c*book. Look for all my ACL writing soon. See you at the fest?
Read more!
Wednesday, September 22, 2010
Twin Shadow with Jamie Lidell at Antones
Just wanted y'all to have the heads up about a show going down at Antone's this Friday night. Bloggy fav, Jamie Lidell has brought his tour stateside and he's tagged up-and-coming artist, Twin Shadow to go along for the ride. Make sure you arrive early enough to catch Twin Shadow's set because you're going to hear that name a lot more often in the near future. His album, Forget was produced by Chris Taylor of Grizzly Bear and mixes 80's synth textures with warbly beats and new-wave soul. Tickets for Friday's show at Antone's are still available but I'd expect a packed house if I were you.
Twin Shadow - Castles in the Snow via YouTube
As for Jamie Lidell his new album explores new sonic textures, which are a far cry from the slick-soul sound of Jim. Expect more electronic experimentation in the music it self but Jamie still wails. Trust me, I had the chance to catch his Austin City Limits Festival aftershow at the Parish last year (or was it 2 years ago?) and he put on a great show. He's assembled a strange-looking crew of extremely tight, in-the-pocket musicians. For my money I can't think of a better way to spend my Friday night in Austin.
Jamie Lidell - I Wanna Be Your Telephone video via YouTube
I'm planning on bringing my Mom to the show, that's right I'm bring my Mom you got a problem with it? Anyway, I bought her a copy of Jim back when it came out and it has become one of her most listened to albums. I don't have the heart to tell her how his sound has changed, but I'm sure he'll still play a few gems like this one:
Jamie Lidell - Little Bit of Feel Good video via YouTube
Read more!
Twin Shadow - Castles in the Snow via YouTube
As for Jamie Lidell his new album explores new sonic textures, which are a far cry from the slick-soul sound of Jim. Expect more electronic experimentation in the music it self but Jamie still wails. Trust me, I had the chance to catch his Austin City Limits Festival aftershow at the Parish last year (or was it 2 years ago?) and he put on a great show. He's assembled a strange-looking crew of extremely tight, in-the-pocket musicians. For my money I can't think of a better way to spend my Friday night in Austin.
Jamie Lidell - I Wanna Be Your Telephone video via YouTube
I'm planning on bringing my Mom to the show, that's right I'm bring my Mom you got a problem with it? Anyway, I bought her a copy of Jim back when it came out and it has become one of her most listened to albums. I don't have the heart to tell her how his sound has changed, but I'm sure he'll still play a few gems like this one:
Jamie Lidell - Little Bit of Feel Good video via YouTube
Read more!
Friday, September 17, 2010
Weekend Plans
It's officially the freakin' weekin' and it's time to have you some fun. There aren't a lot of "marquee names" hitting Austin this weekend but there are still lots of great shows to to see. You can catch the perennial ska band, the Skatalites at Flamingo Cantina but if we're being honest it's actually "the Skatalites". Currently they only have 2/9th of their founding members but they are still a great ska band.
the Skatalites - Simmer Down video via YouTube
Or maybe Japanese, all-female, indie-rock is more your fancy, in which case you should head on over to Red 7 for the Shonen Knife show.
Shonen Knife - Top Of the World video via YouTube
If you like your indie-rock to be more on the local tip there are TWO great shows for you to check out. The Bright Light Social Hour are having a show at Antone's tonight in celebration of the release of their debut LP.
Bright Light Social Hour - video via YouTube
If you'd rather stay in touch with the Red River scene, while still keeping your indie-rock local, you're a very particular person. Luckily the Laughing are doing a show at the Mohawk tonight. That show will be on the Mohawk's inside stage and White Dress will be kicking things off at 10p.
White Dress - video via Cannibal Cheerleader via YouTube
For your Saturday night, I have but one word for you Dungen. Somehow, tickets are still available for this show. They'll set you back $10 and if I were you I'd get on that ASAP because I expect this show to sell out before the doors ($12) open Saturday night.
Dungen - Skill I Allt video via YouTube
What are you up to this weekend? Sleepy Sun at the Parish?
Sleepy Sun - New Age video via YouTube
Whitman at ND?
Whitman - Cul-de-Sac video via YouTube
Goin' to see a movie?
Read more!
the Skatalites - Simmer Down video via YouTube
Or maybe Japanese, all-female, indie-rock is more your fancy, in which case you should head on over to Red 7 for the Shonen Knife show.
Shonen Knife - Top Of the World video via YouTube
If you like your indie-rock to be more on the local tip there are TWO great shows for you to check out. The Bright Light Social Hour are having a show at Antone's tonight in celebration of the release of their debut LP.
Bright Light Social Hour - video via YouTube
If you'd rather stay in touch with the Red River scene, while still keeping your indie-rock local, you're a very particular person. Luckily the Laughing are doing a show at the Mohawk tonight. That show will be on the Mohawk's inside stage and White Dress will be kicking things off at 10p.
White Dress - video via Cannibal Cheerleader via YouTube
For your Saturday night, I have but one word for you Dungen. Somehow, tickets are still available for this show. They'll set you back $10 and if I were you I'd get on that ASAP because I expect this show to sell out before the doors ($12) open Saturday night.
Dungen - Skill I Allt video via YouTube
What are you up to this weekend? Sleepy Sun at the Parish?
Sleepy Sun - New Age video via YouTube
Whitman at ND?
Whitman - Cul-de-Sac video via YouTube
Goin' to see a movie?
Read more!
Monday, September 13, 2010
Japanther at Chain Drive
I gotta tell you folks, I am quite intrigued by this listing for the Japanther show at Chain Drive on Wednesday night. I remember Chain Drive used to have punk shows quite regularly and then it became something that just happened during SXSW. If you're not familiar, Chain Drive is a gay bar but not just any gay bar. It's what one might call a "bear & leather" bar. It's not unusual to see a man, who looks like an off-duty Santa Claus wearing a leather thong and chaps at the CD.
Japanther - Radical Businessman video via YouTube
It should also be mentioned that the Cowabunga Babes are on this same bill, which might mark the first time women will be inside the Chain Drive. I'm not sure where they set bands up in there. That should be interesting as well. If the show is inside the bar takes up most of the space in one area, not to mention it's incredibly dark.
Cowabunga Babes - Hot Babez video via YouTube
We're already intrigued with the space itself for this concert, and the fact that women will be there is of note but the other intriguing element is the inclusion of Best Fwends on the bill. Don't get me wrong, I'm a fan, but talk about a genre-hopping set of artists.
Best Fwends - Smooth Jazz Blanket video via YouTube
Oh yeah, one last helpful bit of info regarding the Chain Drive the drinks are cheap and strong but you get faster/better service with cash than credit. Although, I suppose that last part is almost always true at bars. Still, you should keep it in mind. Show up with a $20 for drinks and you should be covered, with money left-over.
Read more!
Japanther - Radical Businessman video via YouTube
It should also be mentioned that the Cowabunga Babes are on this same bill, which might mark the first time women will be inside the Chain Drive. I'm not sure where they set bands up in there. That should be interesting as well. If the show is inside the bar takes up most of the space in one area, not to mention it's incredibly dark.
Cowabunga Babes - Hot Babez video via YouTube
We're already intrigued with the space itself for this concert, and the fact that women will be there is of note but the other intriguing element is the inclusion of Best Fwends on the bill. Don't get me wrong, I'm a fan, but talk about a genre-hopping set of artists.
Best Fwends - Smooth Jazz Blanket video via YouTube
Oh yeah, one last helpful bit of info regarding the Chain Drive the drinks are cheap and strong but you get faster/better service with cash than credit. Although, I suppose that last part is almost always true at bars. Still, you should keep it in mind. Show up with a $20 for drinks and you should be covered, with money left-over.
Read more!
Friday, September 10, 2010
Sleep Good's Skyclimber
As someone who (occasionally) blogs, I get a lot of e-mail. Lots of press releases from various individuals, promotional companies, small record labels and the like. I pour over these press-releases with great attention to detail and an open-mind, then I ride my unicorn to the money fields where I harvest my days pay. Seriously though, it's very helpful and appreciated to receive these e-mails but it's also very matchy-matchy, samey-samey, monotonous sometimes. There are promotional entities, who will jazz up their emails with different sized and colored fonts making things easier to comb-through, while others send you James Michener novellas minus the grammar, punctuation and capitalization. The long and short of this diatribe I've begun is it's tough to stand out. Kind of goes without saying doesn't it? Well, last week I received a press-release that stood out. Have you heard of a local band called, Sleep Good?
Sleep Good - Shoney's video via YouTube
Sleep Good's newest release Skyclimber is on the Autobus record label (Sunset, Brazos, the Weird Weeds etc). This label always has creative ways of releasing its material. You may recall some, difficult to find, cassette tapes that Sunset released a few years ago? Well let me show you the item, from the e-mail, that drew my attention enough to write this post:
Yes, you read that correctly and I look forward to my review copies of both of these formats, please and thank you. :-)
I showed a co-worker the press-release, when I received the e-mail, and her response was, "I have a VCR!!!"
I'm sad to say that I don't have a VCR, but the topic has come up so much lately that I'm hitting the thrift stores.
Do you have a VCR?
Should more artists release their music via RPG video games?
Perhaps a L.A.R.P concert?
Don't forget, the album is also available in more conventional ways. I'm sure they brought some LPs over to End of an Ear, as well, if you'd like to support a local band AND a local record merchant simultaneously.
Read more!
Sleep Good - Shoney's video via YouTube
Sleep Good's newest release Skyclimber is on the Autobus record label (Sunset, Brazos, the Weird Weeds etc). This label always has creative ways of releasing its material. You may recall some, difficult to find, cassette tapes that Sunset released a few years ago? Well let me show you the item, from the e-mail, that drew my attention enough to write this post:
We will be releasing the album in RPG video game format as well as VHS.
Yes, you read that correctly and I look forward to my review copies of both of these formats, please and thank you. :-)
I showed a co-worker the press-release, when I received the e-mail, and her response was, "I have a VCR!!!"
I'm sad to say that I don't have a VCR, but the topic has come up so much lately that I'm hitting the thrift stores.
Do you have a VCR?
Should more artists release their music via RPG video games?
Perhaps a L.A.R.P concert?
Don't forget, the album is also available in more conventional ways. I'm sure they brought some LPs over to End of an Ear, as well, if you'd like to support a local band AND a local record merchant simultaneously.
Read more!
Friday, September 3, 2010
Jimmy Edgar in Austin Tomorrow Night
My homegirl the Glitoris has teamed up with those dashing folks over at Learning Secrets to bring Jimmy Edgar to our fair city. If you hurry on over to the official home of the Glitoris you can enter a contest to win free entry to the show! You best be hurrying though, the deadline for entries is in less than 3 hours (5pm Fri CST). In addition to entering the contest make sure you hurry-up and RSVP to get $7 entry. Those of you who don't RSVP will be paying $10 at the door. Did I mention there is also free Deep Eddy Sweet Tea Vodka while supplies last? Not to mention $1 PBR's, so you can be a budget-baller, we all know you just wrote a hot check for rent and you need to watch your expenditures, but trust me this show is worth it. All this goes down Saturday night at Austin's Beauty Bar. I'd show up around 10ish if you want some of that free vodka. Chances are it will run out quickly, so don't be a straggler...or a stranger for that matter.
Jimmy Edgar - Turn You Inside Out video via YouTube
You can also download the latest single from J. Edgar over at his official site, fo free! The song is, appropriately titled, Hot, Raw Sex and comes from Edgar's latest LP, XXX.
Jimmy Edgar - New Touch video via YouTube
When you hit Beauty Bar tomorrow, make sure to inquire with the Glitoris about mussy rentals/rides. :-)
Read more!
Jimmy Edgar - Turn You Inside Out video via YouTube
You can also download the latest single from J. Edgar over at his official site, fo free! The song is, appropriately titled, Hot, Raw Sex and comes from Edgar's latest LP, XXX.
Jimmy Edgar - New Touch video via YouTube
When you hit Beauty Bar tomorrow, make sure to inquire with the Glitoris about mussy rentals/rides. :-)
Read more!
Friday, August 27, 2010
ACL Aftershow Officialness
So, I'm sure you've heard by now that the OFFICIAL after-shows for Austin City Limits Festival have been announced/gone on sale. You can get the complete list by clicking either of the above links, but let me tell you which shows I'd be most interested in checking out. If I could only attend 1 after-show I would see the show at La Zona Rosa with Sonic Youth and Warpaint. Not only because Sonic Youth are legends and this show is a rare opportunity but ALSO because Warpaint are effing awesome and will be legends in the future. Well, maybe not legends but you never know? They do kick some majah ass y'all.
Warpaint - Stars video via YouTube
Is it in poor-taste to post a video hosted on the SXSW YouTube channel when writing a post about ACL Fest? Oh well.
If I went to TWO ACL after-shows this year, I would go see Sonic Youth and the other show I would see would have to be...dang I just realized my top 3 after-shows are all taking place at the same time on October 9th. How do you like that? Even in the after-show experience you're forced to choose which stage you want to commit to. I'm still sticking with my number one choice cause it's at La Zona Rosa. My number 2 choice, the same night, is at Stubb's and, personally, I'd rather be at LZR than Stubb's. If you feel the opposite then you should see the Black Keys with Foals Oct. 9th. Have you listened to the Black Keys' latest, Brothers yet? They just keep getting better y'all.
the Black Keys - Tighten Up video via YouTube
My number 3 choice, also on October 9th is two bands I've seen already this year, both of whom I really loved. Girls will be playing Emo's with the Soft Pack.
Girls - Lust For Life video via YouTube
For the rest of my choices I'll just choose one show per night to make things easier. Wednesday night, before the fest, is all about the Strokes at Stubb's. Hate all you want but every track on their first LP is an effing jam and will be awesome to see performed live.
the Strokes - the Modern Age video via YouTube
Thursday night before the fest has to go to, hometown heroes, Spoon. I had the pleasure of enjoying their Austin City Limits television taping earlier this year and it was pure perfection.
Spoon - Nobody Gets Me But You video via YouTube
I must also give a nod to, lesser-known act, First Aid Kit who is playing a show with Ferraby Lionheart on Thursday night as well.
First Aid Kit - Tiger Mountain Peasant Song video via YouTube
Friday night, the first true night of "after-show", is kind of a toss-up for me. None of the shows on this particular night are un-missable in my opinion. I know a lot of you will disagree with that but this isn't your blog is it? *Evil Laugh Goes Here* For me it's a tie between seeing the Black Lips and seeing Deadmau5. It kind of just depends on what sort of experience you're looking for. Now, Monsters of Folk are also playing that night, but I feel like they're much better as a concept than a reality. I like the idea of those musicians coming together but I'm quite underwhelmed with the actual results ya know?
Black Lips - Drugs video via YouTube
Now we're up to Saturday Oct. 9th, which is where I began this post. So that's my Bloggy Advice re:ACL after-shows. Thoughts? Opinions? Congratulations?
Read more!
Warpaint - Stars video via YouTube
Is it in poor-taste to post a video hosted on the SXSW YouTube channel when writing a post about ACL Fest? Oh well.
If I went to TWO ACL after-shows this year, I would go see Sonic Youth and the other show I would see would have to be...dang I just realized my top 3 after-shows are all taking place at the same time on October 9th. How do you like that? Even in the after-show experience you're forced to choose which stage you want to commit to. I'm still sticking with my number one choice cause it's at La Zona Rosa. My number 2 choice, the same night, is at Stubb's and, personally, I'd rather be at LZR than Stubb's. If you feel the opposite then you should see the Black Keys with Foals Oct. 9th. Have you listened to the Black Keys' latest, Brothers yet? They just keep getting better y'all.
the Black Keys - Tighten Up video via YouTube
My number 3 choice, also on October 9th is two bands I've seen already this year, both of whom I really loved. Girls will be playing Emo's with the Soft Pack.
Girls - Lust For Life video via YouTube
For the rest of my choices I'll just choose one show per night to make things easier. Wednesday night, before the fest, is all about the Strokes at Stubb's. Hate all you want but every track on their first LP is an effing jam and will be awesome to see performed live.
the Strokes - the Modern Age video via YouTube
Thursday night before the fest has to go to, hometown heroes, Spoon. I had the pleasure of enjoying their Austin City Limits television taping earlier this year and it was pure perfection.
Spoon - Nobody Gets Me But You video via YouTube
I must also give a nod to, lesser-known act, First Aid Kit who is playing a show with Ferraby Lionheart on Thursday night as well.
First Aid Kit - Tiger Mountain Peasant Song video via YouTube
Friday night, the first true night of "after-show", is kind of a toss-up for me. None of the shows on this particular night are un-missable in my opinion. I know a lot of you will disagree with that but this isn't your blog is it? *Evil Laugh Goes Here* For me it's a tie between seeing the Black Lips and seeing Deadmau5. It kind of just depends on what sort of experience you're looking for. Now, Monsters of Folk are also playing that night, but I feel like they're much better as a concept than a reality. I like the idea of those musicians coming together but I'm quite underwhelmed with the actual results ya know?
Black Lips - Drugs video via YouTube
Now we're up to Saturday Oct. 9th, which is where I began this post. So that's my Bloggy Advice re:ACL after-shows. Thoughts? Opinions? Congratulations?
Read more!
Subscribe to:
Posts (Atom)
