Wednesday, April 06, 2011
I've moved my blog!
I jumped on the Wordpress train... You can now find me at traceinvader.wordpress.com.
Wednesday, March 09, 2011
3/9/11
Menu: Chili Rubbed Tequila Shrimp & Sauteed Kale (Canyon Ranch, Nourish cookbook), Brown Rice
Music: Urban Cowboy (vinyl)
I had forgotten how much I loved this album! Upon listening as an adult, ok, maybe it's not a classic but it always will be in my mind because I have so many fond memories attached to it. I still know all the words to most of the songs, especially "Love the World Away", "Lookin' for Love (In all the Wrong Places), and of course "Lyin' Eyes" and "The Devil Went Down to Georgia." My (quite a bit younger) boyfriend looked at me like I was slightly insane and wasn't too thrilled about playing all four sides of the double-album, but we did anyway.
These two recipes from my new Canyon Ranch Nourish cookbook were easy and satisfying. Each one only takes about 10 minutes to prepare but it's a little hard to coordinate the two to finish around the same time. I'd suggest washing and tearing your kale, washing and deshelling/deveining your shrimp, and getting all the spices out and ready before you start any portion of the process. Sidenote: I also made Green Chile Scrambled Eggs from this cookbook this morning and they were also really easy, healthy and stupendously filling and tasty. I had all of the ingredients for these recipes already on hand and they're all in season.
I feel like I've come a long way from "I don't know whether I'm supposed to rinse poultry before cooking" and "Oops, I accidentally spent three hours making homemade soup and didn't notice the tiny bugs on the chard until they were floating in our bowls." I'm, frankly, shocked that I find cooking as soothing as I do- I didn't come from a household that did a lot of it. We always ate healthy meals and I grew up knowing that sugar, refined carbs, and processed foods weren't the best choices but my parents didn't spend a lot of time and energy cooking elaborate meals. I suppose that won't be something I'll continue to do if/when I have kiddos either... juggling life can sometimes be hard. Which is why I think it's even more important to take simple moments and make them sacred.
I'm not one bit religious but I find myself saying a silent prayer of thanks every time I sit down to food that nourishes my body and soul.
Music: Urban Cowboy (vinyl)
I had forgotten how much I loved this album! Upon listening as an adult, ok, maybe it's not a classic but it always will be in my mind because I have so many fond memories attached to it. I still know all the words to most of the songs, especially "Love the World Away", "Lookin' for Love (In all the Wrong Places), and of course "Lyin' Eyes" and "The Devil Went Down to Georgia." My (quite a bit younger) boyfriend looked at me like I was slightly insane and wasn't too thrilled about playing all four sides of the double-album, but we did anyway.
These two recipes from my new Canyon Ranch Nourish cookbook were easy and satisfying. Each one only takes about 10 minutes to prepare but it's a little hard to coordinate the two to finish around the same time. I'd suggest washing and tearing your kale, washing and deshelling/deveining your shrimp, and getting all the spices out and ready before you start any portion of the process. Sidenote: I also made Green Chile Scrambled Eggs from this cookbook this morning and they were also really easy, healthy and stupendously filling and tasty. I had all of the ingredients for these recipes already on hand and they're all in season.
I feel like I've come a long way from "I don't know whether I'm supposed to rinse poultry before cooking" and "Oops, I accidentally spent three hours making homemade soup and didn't notice the tiny bugs on the chard until they were floating in our bowls." I'm, frankly, shocked that I find cooking as soothing as I do- I didn't come from a household that did a lot of it. We always ate healthy meals and I grew up knowing that sugar, refined carbs, and processed foods weren't the best choices but my parents didn't spend a lot of time and energy cooking elaborate meals. I suppose that won't be something I'll continue to do if/when I have kiddos either... juggling life can sometimes be hard. Which is why I think it's even more important to take simple moments and make them sacred.
I'm not one bit religious but I find myself saying a silent prayer of thanks every time I sit down to food that nourishes my body and soul.
Monday, March 07, 2011
3/6/11
Menu: Bacon Parmesan crusted Tilapia (Coastal Living), Cabbage Bacon Mashers (Epicurious.com), Bibb Lettuce Salad (rachaelray.com)
Music: Adele Pandora station
I knew I had reached another level in my cooking when, after a stressful and busy weekend, I came home Sunday night and preferred cooking over going out and grabbing food. It's become therapeutic and, honestly, I usually enjoy what I cook much more than what I can get at a lot of restaurants here in San Antonio.
I've also figured out that the Adele station on Pandora is one of my faves - lots of singalong-friendly choices across the map, from Adele (duh) to John Legend to Regina Spektor. Singing while cooking is one of the best possible combinations. And this dinner was stellar.
Some notes on these: I used skin-on red potatoes for the mashers and let them simmer 20-30 minutes (as opposed to the 10 minutes they recommend) and added local cabbage and bacon. It's possible to use high-quality real bacon bits for the tilapia coating instead of cooking your own bacon, but you definitely want some natural, nitrate-free cooked bacon for the mashers. The tilapia is messy but delicious. The bibb lettuce salad is great with bibb lettuce but you can sub any other type of lettuce you like, preferably something local and organic. I toasted the pine nuts in the oven for 10 minutes on 300 degrees- this adds a nice touch of flavor. The homemade dressing with shallots is great but you could also use an oil/vinegar prepared dressing and/or red onion for the salad.
As with everything, this is best served with a little bit of wine and a lot of love! Bon apetit!
Music: Adele Pandora station
I knew I had reached another level in my cooking when, after a stressful and busy weekend, I came home Sunday night and preferred cooking over going out and grabbing food. It's become therapeutic and, honestly, I usually enjoy what I cook much more than what I can get at a lot of restaurants here in San Antonio.
I've also figured out that the Adele station on Pandora is one of my faves - lots of singalong-friendly choices across the map, from Adele (duh) to John Legend to Regina Spektor. Singing while cooking is one of the best possible combinations. And this dinner was stellar.
Some notes on these: I used skin-on red potatoes for the mashers and let them simmer 20-30 minutes (as opposed to the 10 minutes they recommend) and added local cabbage and bacon. It's possible to use high-quality real bacon bits for the tilapia coating instead of cooking your own bacon, but you definitely want some natural, nitrate-free cooked bacon for the mashers. The tilapia is messy but delicious. The bibb lettuce salad is great with bibb lettuce but you can sub any other type of lettuce you like, preferably something local and organic. I toasted the pine nuts in the oven for 10 minutes on 300 degrees- this adds a nice touch of flavor. The homemade dressing with shallots is great but you could also use an oil/vinegar prepared dressing and/or red onion for the salad.
As with everything, this is best served with a little bit of wine and a lot of love! Bon apetit!
Thursday, March 03, 2011
3/3/11
Menu: Collard Greens & Winter Roots Soup (The Lee Bros. Simple Fresh Southern cookbook), buttered Ezekial Bread
Music: TV On the Radio, SNL re-run
I'm not sure where cookbook authors get their listed prep times - this one says 10 minutes, which was far from true for me. It took me more like thirty. It was worth it, though. I was admittedly and severely hungover today and this was a great hangover elixir. With local kale and turnips, as well as carrots, garlic, onion, cannellini beans and a little bit of nitrate-free, uncured bacon for flavoring, this turned out to be a healthy, light meal. The only thing that might have made it better would have been homemade vegetable broth but I didn't have the devotion or energy for that tonight; nor did I have much energy for music selection so I turned on an SNL re-run. I got lucky - TV On the Radio was performing.
Off to a weekend of letting someone else (a pro, in a restaurant) cook for me! Back to my kitchen on Sunday.
Music: TV On the Radio, SNL re-run
I'm not sure where cookbook authors get their listed prep times - this one says 10 minutes, which was far from true for me. It took me more like thirty. It was worth it, though. I was admittedly and severely hungover today and this was a great hangover elixir. With local kale and turnips, as well as carrots, garlic, onion, cannellini beans and a little bit of nitrate-free, uncured bacon for flavoring, this turned out to be a healthy, light meal. The only thing that might have made it better would have been homemade vegetable broth but I didn't have the devotion or energy for that tonight; nor did I have much energy for music selection so I turned on an SNL re-run. I got lucky - TV On the Radio was performing.
Off to a weekend of letting someone else (a pro, in a restaurant) cook for me! Back to my kitchen on Sunday.
3/2/11
Menu: Mediterranean Shrimp and Pasta, Fresh Mozzarella-Tomato-Basil Salad, The Ultimate Southern Living cookbook
Music: The Beach Boys, Endless Summer, vinyl
In celebration of this glorious weather, I threw The Beach Boys on the record player and whipped up this delish and easy lunch. This album makes me happy- classic Beach Boys with a couple of songs that sound like they could be new indie rock. For lunch, I used wild shrimp, fresh rosemary, and local mushrooms, tomatoes, and basil. Greenling is the best! The result was a light, soupy pasta perfect for the spring-like weather.
I know what's for dinner tonight, the toughest decision will be what the soundtrack will be...
Music: The Beach Boys, Endless Summer, vinyl
In celebration of this glorious weather, I threw The Beach Boys on the record player and whipped up this delish and easy lunch. This album makes me happy- classic Beach Boys with a couple of songs that sound like they could be new indie rock. For lunch, I used wild shrimp, fresh rosemary, and local mushrooms, tomatoes, and basil. Greenling is the best! The result was a light, soupy pasta perfect for the spring-like weather.
I know what's for dinner tonight, the toughest decision will be what the soundtrack will be...
Monday, February 28, 2011
2/28/11
Menu: Asian-Style Grilled Tilapia (Food.com), Bacon-y Bok Choy (AllRecipes.com)
Music: Mumford & Sons, Sigh No More
This was a favorite! Highly recommend both of these fast and tasty recipes.
Lessons learned:
1) Cooking after a couple of beers and some Golden Tee, while it may be riskier, is usually more fun.
2) Dancing a little jig around the living room while the broiler heats up is a nice diversion.
3) Bacon (especially when it's thick-cut, local, natural, no-nitrate bacon), garlic, and olive oil make everything better.
4) A dash of sweetness (ginger) takes the bite out of the red pepper spice in both these dishes. Probably a good metaphor for dealing with life.
Music: Mumford & Sons, Sigh No More
This was a favorite! Highly recommend both of these fast and tasty recipes.
Lessons learned:
1) Cooking after a couple of beers and some Golden Tee, while it may be riskier, is usually more fun.
2) Dancing a little jig around the living room while the broiler heats up is a nice diversion.
3) Bacon (especially when it's thick-cut, local, natural, no-nitrate bacon), garlic, and olive oil make everything better.
4) A dash of sweetness (ginger) takes the bite out of the red pepper spice in both these dishes. Probably a good metaphor for dealing with life.
Sunday, February 27, 2011
2/26/11
Menu: Butternut Squash and Escarole Lasagna (RachaelRay.com)
Music: Willie Nelson, "Red Headed Stranger"; Jackson Browne, "Late For the Sky" - vinyl
I think I enjoy cooking so much because it is both control and creation. For so many years, as an aspiring professional ballet dancer, I had such a strained relationship with food. It's nice to be able to control what I'm putting in my body, creating something beautiful in appearance and function.
This recipe, and many others, is a bit like choreography. I had three pots going and the squash roasting in the oven at the same time. You've got to whisk the sauce at the right time, saute the escarole, fold the mixture into the noodles. It really is, in a fundamental way, like dancing.
And, when it's over, and this beauty with bubbling gruyere and parmesan on top emerges from the oven, I can share this creation with someone I love and know it's not just pleasure, it's nourishment. It's good for my soul and my body. And Willie's voice in the background probably added a touch of magic.
Music: Willie Nelson, "Red Headed Stranger"; Jackson Browne, "Late For the Sky" - vinyl
I think I enjoy cooking so much because it is both control and creation. For so many years, as an aspiring professional ballet dancer, I had such a strained relationship with food. It's nice to be able to control what I'm putting in my body, creating something beautiful in appearance and function.
This recipe, and many others, is a bit like choreography. I had three pots going and the squash roasting in the oven at the same time. You've got to whisk the sauce at the right time, saute the escarole, fold the mixture into the noodles. It really is, in a fundamental way, like dancing.
And, when it's over, and this beauty with bubbling gruyere and parmesan on top emerges from the oven, I can share this creation with someone I love and know it's not just pleasure, it's nourishment. It's good for my soul and my body. And Willie's voice in the background probably added a touch of magic.
Thursday, August 26, 2010
KCRW video broadcast today-Fistful of Mercy
Great live performance at Village Studios by Fistful of Mercy - Ben Harper, Joseph Arthur, and Dhani Harrison's latest project. Check it out - and don't forget to donate to KCRW!
Saturday, July 24, 2010
New songs from Austin artist gfire - and her birthday party show tonight
If you haven't heard of her yet, gfire is an incredibly hard-to-define Austin singer-songwriter with an unusual Kate Bush-inspired sound. Her music has been featured on over 200 radio and television stations around the world and two of her songs (less is more (rm 61 mix)) and (i wouldn't stop) have recently been added to NPR's Undercurrents.
I was lucky enough to get a rare preview of "fade to blue", one of the songs from her upcoming albums choosing her own colours!!. It's a mix of blues with minimal electronic beats and features Danny Barnes on banjo, Warren Hood on fiddle and Danny Ray Young (in his last studio appearance ever) on washboard. Great sound.
"pink" is a trippy sitar-guitar (Denny Gilbert from Lizzi and the Lovers) melded with ethereal vocals (gfire), tabla (Jason McKenzie from Atash) and viola (Andrew Noble from Death is not a Joyride). This one is a favorite of mine. gfire has a free download of "pink" via her website along with a presale option on her new CD.
Tonight, July 24, she is hosting her 3rd annual “hot pink birthday party” at Austin Java, 12th and Lamar from 8-11 p.m. The show is completely free, open to all ages and partygoers are encouraged to either wear a pink outfit or bring a pink birthday item. A grand prize will be awarded to the person with the best pink costume. Guests will enjoy a diverse serving of all original sounds and are invited to show off their own hot pink colors.
The “hot pink birthday party” is a fundraiser for the production of gfire’s new CD “choosing my own colours!!” gfire will be pre-selling copies of the new CD and showcasing new songs from the album, giving fans a sneak peek at what’s to come.
I was lucky enough to get a rare preview of "fade to blue", one of the songs from her upcoming albums choosing her own colours!!. It's a mix of blues with minimal electronic beats and features Danny Barnes on banjo, Warren Hood on fiddle and Danny Ray Young (in his last studio appearance ever) on washboard. Great sound.
"pink" is a trippy sitar-guitar (Denny Gilbert from Lizzi and the Lovers) melded with ethereal vocals (gfire), tabla (Jason McKenzie from Atash) and viola (Andrew Noble from Death is not a Joyride). This one is a favorite of mine. gfire has a free download of "pink" via her website along with a presale option on her new CD.
Tonight, July 24, she is hosting her 3rd annual “hot pink birthday party” at Austin Java, 12th and Lamar from 8-11 p.m. The show is completely free, open to all ages and partygoers are encouraged to either wear a pink outfit or bring a pink birthday item. A grand prize will be awarded to the person with the best pink costume. Guests will enjoy a diverse serving of all original sounds and are invited to show off their own hot pink colors.
The “hot pink birthday party” is a fundraiser for the production of gfire’s new CD “choosing my own colours!!” gfire will be pre-selling copies of the new CD and showcasing new songs from the album, giving fans a sneak peek at what’s to come.
Tuesday, July 06, 2010
Mumford and Sons - Sigh No More Review
Mumford & Sons' "Little Lion Man" was one of those rare songs that stopped me in the moment, made me turn the radio up, shush my boyfriend, and immediately google the lyrics to find out... "What the hell is this?!" (like, as in, "I have to have it"). I loved the song so much I went ahead and bought the full album, trusting that it would live up to "Little Lion Man," and it has. I obviously wasn't the only one who felt this way - they've been touring worldwide and, according to their website, their debut album ultimately shot up to #1 on itunes.
Most of the album evokes the exact same feelings as the aforementioned song- It is purely gorgeous. But it's not just gorgeous - the lyrics are beautiful and touching, the instrumentation is unique and perfectly produced letting the vocals share the stage equally, and the harmonies will give you chills (I'm willing to bet on that). All that banjo rocks, too. Not all of the songs are as memorable as "Little Lion Man" but, as a whole, the entire album is fun, emotive, and totally listenable. It has ample feeling and intensity without being weepy.
The bio on their website describes their style as "a gutsy, old-time sound that marries the magic of Crosby, Stills, Nash and Young with the might of Kings Of Leon." I hesitate to compare them in any way to Kings of Leon but the truth and purity behind the music could definitely be compared to CSNY. This one will definitely be on frequent rotation on my ipod.
Mumford & Sons - Sigh No More
Most of the album evokes the exact same feelings as the aforementioned song- It is purely gorgeous. But it's not just gorgeous - the lyrics are beautiful and touching, the instrumentation is unique and perfectly produced letting the vocals share the stage equally, and the harmonies will give you chills (I'm willing to bet on that). All that banjo rocks, too. Not all of the songs are as memorable as "Little Lion Man" but, as a whole, the entire album is fun, emotive, and totally listenable. It has ample feeling and intensity without being weepy.
The bio on their website describes their style as "a gutsy, old-time sound that marries the magic of Crosby, Stills, Nash and Young with the might of Kings Of Leon." I hesitate to compare them in any way to Kings of Leon but the truth and purity behind the music could definitely be compared to CSNY. This one will definitely be on frequent rotation on my ipod.
Mumford & Sons - Sigh No More
Sunday, March 07, 2010
Austin Live Music Picks for the Week - on hiatus for SXSW
TraceInvader is taking a break on live music picks in preparation for SXSW. The Interactive Festival begins this week, followed by Film and Music. I'll be blogging about my experiences and reviewing shows as the weeks roll on...
See you soon!
See you soon!
Monday, March 01, 2010
Austin Live Music Picks for March 1-7
Monday, March 1st:
Antone's: Chris Ware Benefit w/ David Grissom, Tommy Shannon, Chris Layton, Scrappy Jud Newcomb, Charlie Sexton, Redd Volkaert, Jon Dee Graham, The Band of Heathens
Continental Club: The Trishes (10pm)
Lucky Lounge: Cover Girl
Ming's Cafe: Brad Houser, Eldridge Goins, Scott Bucklin
Mohawk: Outside: Vetiver, The Clientele; Inside Later: Historians, Kincaid
The Parish: Autumn, BettySoo, Cadillac Sky
Tuesday, March 2nd:
Continental Club: Toni Price (6:30pm); Gallery: Ephraim Owens Experience (10pm)
Mi Casa Cantina: Nacional Records Listening Party
Mohawk: White Dress, Sunset, Scout Niblett
Momo's: KUT and Bemba Entertainment Present World Music Night w/ Daniel Llanes, Os Alquimistas, Huerta Culture
The Parlor: Navasota String Band
Wednesday, March 3rd:
Antone's: Zapata!, Blues Mafia
Continental Club: Stone River Boys, Jon Dee Graham, Kevin Welch
Elephant Room: Ephraim Owens
Emo's: Outside: O'Brother, Chris Staples, The Features, Manchester Orchestra
Lamberts: Amy Cook
Lucky Lounge: Jeff Lofton Quartet (5:30pm)
One 2 One Bar: The Shorthairs, The Twalls, George Devore
Saxon Pub: Bob Livingston, Walt Wilkins & the Mysteriqueros, Ouachita
Stubb's: Outside: Larry & His Flask, Strung Out, Dropkick Murphys
Thursday, March 4th:
Antone's: Uncle Bruno, Afrofreque, Bruce James Soultet
Club de Ville: Maneja Beto, the Pons, Frantic Clam, Mobley CD Release
The Ghost Room: Jeff Lofton's Electric Thang
Gruene Hall: Walt Wilkins & the Mysteriqueros
Lamberts: Sahara Smith, Eagle Prichard Murray Band
Mohawk: My Milky Way Arms, Ideal Soul Mart
Momo's: The House of Songs Presents John Pointer, Dan Grissom, Graham Weber, Lee Barber, Hush (5-7pm); Tyrone Wells w/ Tony Lucca, Ainjel Emme, Josh Weathers and the True Endeavors, the Coveters
Paramount Theatre: Wynton Marsalis
Friday, March 5th:
Antone's: Reid Wilson & His So-Called Friends, Lucky Tomblin, Junior Brown
Continental Club: The Blues Specialists, Patricia Vonne, Doyle Bramhall
Emo's: Schmillion, Here Holy Spain, Riddlin Kids, Cruiserweight CD Release
Flamingo Cantina: DJ Aquaman, D-Madness, Tribal Nation
One 2 One Bar: Wendy Colonna, Ginger Leigh, James Speer
The Parish: Port O'Brien, the Dig, Portugal. the Man
Saxon Pub: Earl Poole Ball & the Cosmic Americans
Stubb's: Akina Adderley, the Ripe
Threadgill's: Jason Eady, the Gourds
Saturday, March 6th:
Beauty Bar: Bright Light Social Hour, Car Stereo (Wars)
Emo's Inside: Jason Boesel, Cory Chisel & the Wandering Sons, Dawes
End of an Ear: Brazos
La Zona Rosa: Lee Elementary Benefit w/ Mutton Busters, Mundi, Bruce Robison & Kelly Willis
Lift Cafe: Paul Green School of Music
Mohawk: the Bubbles, Frank Smith, the O's, Li'l Cap'n Travis
Momo's: Dan Dyer Band w/ Seth Walker
The Parish: Port O'Brien, the Dig, Portugal. the Man
Poodie's Hilltop Bar & Grill: BettySoo, Carolyn Wonderland
Saxon Pub: WC Clark, Malford Milligan, Kalu James
Stubb's: Dark Star Orchestra
United States Art Authority: OxFam Haiti Relief: Inside: DJ Scorpio, the Couch, the Ripe, Planet Rye Co., White White Lights, Woven Bones, the Murdocks, Tia Carrera, Lions; Outside: Mixed Use Media, Michael Kincaid, Prayer for Animals, Till We're Blue or Destroy, Smoke & Feathers, The Lemurs, Ringo Deathstarr
Whip In: Lee Barber, Scrappy Jud Newcomb
Sunday, March 7th:
Continental Club: Nick Curran Benefit w/ Modern Don Juans, Bear & the Essentials, Shaun Young, Horton Bros., the Moonhangers, Mueller Bros., the Keller Bros., Derek O'Brien, Chili Cold Blood (1pm); Gallery: Jon Dee Graham, Jesse Sublett, Walter Tragert, Kathy McCarthy, Andrew Duplantis, Mike Flanigan Trio
The Parish: Graham Colton, Stephen Kellogg, needtobreathe
Waterloo Records in-store: Cory Chisel
Antone's: Chris Ware Benefit w/ David Grissom, Tommy Shannon, Chris Layton, Scrappy Jud Newcomb, Charlie Sexton, Redd Volkaert, Jon Dee Graham, The Band of Heathens
Continental Club: The Trishes (10pm)
Lucky Lounge: Cover Girl
Ming's Cafe: Brad Houser, Eldridge Goins, Scott Bucklin
Mohawk: Outside: Vetiver, The Clientele; Inside Later: Historians, Kincaid
The Parish: Autumn, BettySoo, Cadillac Sky
Tuesday, March 2nd:
Continental Club: Toni Price (6:30pm); Gallery: Ephraim Owens Experience (10pm)
Mi Casa Cantina: Nacional Records Listening Party
Mohawk: White Dress, Sunset, Scout Niblett
Momo's: KUT and Bemba Entertainment Present World Music Night w/ Daniel Llanes, Os Alquimistas, Huerta Culture
The Parlor: Navasota String Band
Wednesday, March 3rd:
Antone's: Zapata!, Blues Mafia
Continental Club: Stone River Boys, Jon Dee Graham, Kevin Welch
Elephant Room: Ephraim Owens
Emo's: Outside: O'Brother, Chris Staples, The Features, Manchester Orchestra
Lamberts: Amy Cook
Lucky Lounge: Jeff Lofton Quartet (5:30pm)
One 2 One Bar: The Shorthairs, The Twalls, George Devore
Saxon Pub: Bob Livingston, Walt Wilkins & the Mysteriqueros, Ouachita
Stubb's: Outside: Larry & His Flask, Strung Out, Dropkick Murphys
Thursday, March 4th:
Antone's: Uncle Bruno, Afrofreque, Bruce James Soultet
Club de Ville: Maneja Beto, the Pons, Frantic Clam, Mobley CD Release
The Ghost Room: Jeff Lofton's Electric Thang
Gruene Hall: Walt Wilkins & the Mysteriqueros
Lamberts: Sahara Smith, Eagle Prichard Murray Band
Mohawk: My Milky Way Arms, Ideal Soul Mart
Momo's: The House of Songs Presents John Pointer, Dan Grissom, Graham Weber, Lee Barber, Hush (5-7pm); Tyrone Wells w/ Tony Lucca, Ainjel Emme, Josh Weathers and the True Endeavors, the Coveters
Paramount Theatre: Wynton Marsalis
Friday, March 5th:
Antone's: Reid Wilson & His So-Called Friends, Lucky Tomblin, Junior Brown
Continental Club: The Blues Specialists, Patricia Vonne, Doyle Bramhall
Emo's: Schmillion, Here Holy Spain, Riddlin Kids, Cruiserweight CD Release
Flamingo Cantina: DJ Aquaman, D-Madness, Tribal Nation
One 2 One Bar: Wendy Colonna, Ginger Leigh, James Speer
The Parish: Port O'Brien, the Dig, Portugal. the Man
Saxon Pub: Earl Poole Ball & the Cosmic Americans
Stubb's: Akina Adderley, the Ripe
Threadgill's: Jason Eady, the Gourds
Saturday, March 6th:
Beauty Bar: Bright Light Social Hour, Car Stereo (Wars)
Emo's Inside: Jason Boesel, Cory Chisel & the Wandering Sons, Dawes
End of an Ear: Brazos
La Zona Rosa: Lee Elementary Benefit w/ Mutton Busters, Mundi, Bruce Robison & Kelly Willis
Lift Cafe: Paul Green School of Music
Mohawk: the Bubbles, Frank Smith, the O's, Li'l Cap'n Travis
Momo's: Dan Dyer Band w/ Seth Walker
The Parish: Port O'Brien, the Dig, Portugal. the Man
Poodie's Hilltop Bar & Grill: BettySoo, Carolyn Wonderland
Saxon Pub: WC Clark, Malford Milligan, Kalu James
Stubb's: Dark Star Orchestra
United States Art Authority: OxFam Haiti Relief: Inside: DJ Scorpio, the Couch, the Ripe, Planet Rye Co., White White Lights, Woven Bones, the Murdocks, Tia Carrera, Lions; Outside: Mixed Use Media, Michael Kincaid, Prayer for Animals, Till We're Blue or Destroy, Smoke & Feathers, The Lemurs, Ringo Deathstarr
Whip In: Lee Barber, Scrappy Jud Newcomb
Sunday, March 7th:
Continental Club: Nick Curran Benefit w/ Modern Don Juans, Bear & the Essentials, Shaun Young, Horton Bros., the Moonhangers, Mueller Bros., the Keller Bros., Derek O'Brien, Chili Cold Blood (1pm); Gallery: Jon Dee Graham, Jesse Sublett, Walter Tragert, Kathy McCarthy, Andrew Duplantis, Mike Flanigan Trio
The Parish: Graham Colton, Stephen Kellogg, needtobreathe
Waterloo Records in-store: Cory Chisel
Tegan and Sara Review
Several things on the agenda for this week's blog update.
First and foremost, a quick summary of the Tegan and Sara show Friday, 2/26, at Bass Concert Hall here in Austin. I wasn't prepared for how great they would match with this venue, given that is a seated performance hall and their music is pretty upbeat and, although multi-instrumental, not really orchestral- but it was a great pairing. It made me simultaneously wish that I had a musical sister who wanted to start a band with me and that I was an adorable lesbian (which, as I'm sure you know, they both are as well as being twins); alas, I'm a straight only child so all I can do is live vicariously through them.
This was one of the best-executed shows I've seen, right on par with big-money, big-name artists like Leonard Cohen. The band was stellar and everyone segued easily from song to song with just enough banter to make the audience feel close to Tegan and Sara but not so much that you started thinking to yourself "Ok, ok, get back to the music." The lighting complimented the songs perfectly and the harmonies were gorgeous. There was a great mix of songs from their most recent album and older crowd favorites. I think the best thing about them is that they both manage to come across 100% confident with flawless execution in their music but, when they chatted with the audience, they seemed adorably awkward. Two thumbs up, highly recommended, whatever other cliches you can think of- just go see them if you get the chance.
First and foremost, a quick summary of the Tegan and Sara show Friday, 2/26, at Bass Concert Hall here in Austin. I wasn't prepared for how great they would match with this venue, given that is a seated performance hall and their music is pretty upbeat and, although multi-instrumental, not really orchestral- but it was a great pairing. It made me simultaneously wish that I had a musical sister who wanted to start a band with me and that I was an adorable lesbian (which, as I'm sure you know, they both are as well as being twins); alas, I'm a straight only child so all I can do is live vicariously through them.
This was one of the best-executed shows I've seen, right on par with big-money, big-name artists like Leonard Cohen. The band was stellar and everyone segued easily from song to song with just enough banter to make the audience feel close to Tegan and Sara but not so much that you started thinking to yourself "Ok, ok, get back to the music." The lighting complimented the songs perfectly and the harmonies were gorgeous. There was a great mix of songs from their most recent album and older crowd favorites. I think the best thing about them is that they both manage to come across 100% confident with flawless execution in their music but, when they chatted with the audience, they seemed adorably awkward. Two thumbs up, highly recommended, whatever other cliches you can think of- just go see them if you get the chance.
Monday, February 22, 2010
Austin Live Music Picks for February 22nd-28th
After a brief hiatus, we're back with picks in Austin live music as we careen headfirst toward SXSW. Start now and you might be somewhat more prepared for the non-stop, heart-swelling, liver-taxing five days of music that is SXSW.
Monday, February 22nd:
Continental Club Gallery: Downtown Rulers Club, Bruce James Soultet
The Ghost Room: David Israel, We Landed on the Moon, Elsinore, The Sour Notes
Saxon Pub: Matt the Electrician, Nelo, Jeff Plankenhorn, Steven Ray Will
Tuesday, February 23rd:
Blues Tuesday w/ Derek O'Brien, Malford Milligan
Cactus Cafe: Chip Taylor
Continental Club: Gallery: Ephraim Owens Experience; In the Club: Toni Price, Mudphonic
Mohawk: The Old Believers, Cataldo, Laura Viers & the Hall of Flames
Momo's: Jeff Lofton Quartet, Naga Valli, Sageet Millenium, Austin Piazzolla Quintet
Wednesday, February 24th:
Antone's: Darren Hoff & the Hard Times, Driver, Walt Wilkins & the Mystiqueros, Kinky Friedman
Carousel Lounge: Kelly McFarling, Blake Langlintis, Jordan Moser, Sean Maloney, Rusty Scott & the Enormous Radio
The Driskill Lobby Bar: Idgy Vaughn
Emo's: Quiet Company, Scott Reynolds, Evan Dando
The Independent at 501 Studios: Brendan Benson
Lucky Lounge: Jeff Lofton Quartet (5:30); Ben Burgess (10:00)
Mohawk: Outside: Reece, Black Gold, Hot Chelle Rae, Sherwood (8pm); Inside Later: Title Tracks, Pretty & Nice (10pm)
The Parish: Warpaint, Akron/Family
Trailer Space Records & Events Center: The Golden Boys, Herman the German, A Giant Dog
Waterloo Records in-store: Chip Taylor (5pm)
Thursday, February 25th:
Antone's: The Fabulous Thunderbirds
Cactus Cafe: Gene Ween
Lambert's: Legs Against Arms, Sad Accordions
Lucky Lounge: Ian McLagan & the Bump Band, the Statesboro Revue (6pm)
Momo's: Nolapalooza w/ Little Elmore Reed, Greg Izor, Fat Man & Little Boy, Atomic Duo
Paramount Theatre: Keb' Mo'
Saxon Pub: David Holt & Tommy Shannon (6pm), George Harrison's Birthday w/ Darin Murphy, George Devore (8pm)
The Scoot Inn: Hilary York, Mistress Stephanie & Her Melodic Cat
Shangri-La: Bike for Your Rights, Who Hit Mariel Mentik Benefit w/ DJ Hobo D, Ben Blackout, Zlam Dunk, Book of Soundslisten to music by Book of Sounds, Ghost Knife, Broken Gold, Bike Problems, Minor Mishap
Friday, February 26th:
Antone's: Cory Morrow
Bass Concert Hall: Tegan & Sara
Cactus Cafe: Gene Ween
Chupacabra Mexican Restaurant: Dianne Whitehair Benefit w/ Baby Got Bacteria, Scary Mary, Stupid Drama, Juliana Murphy, Scorpio Rising
Emo's: Johnny Cash Bash w/ The Band in Black, The Derailers, Lucky Tubb & the Modern Day Troubadours, Skeleton, Brigitte London, Roger Wallace
Evangeline Cafe: Wendy Colonna
Gruene Hall: The Trishes, Nitty Gritty Dirt Band
Hogg Auditorium: Kristjan Jarvi's Absolute Ensemble
Hot Mama's Espresso Bar: Austin Go Girls w/ Gfire, Deann Rene
Jovita's: Cover Girl & friends Johnny Cash Hoot Night
Mean-Eyed Cat: Johnny Cash's Birthday w/ Zack Hruska, Damon Bramblett, Lucas Hudgins & the First Cousins (7:30)
One 2 One Bar: GB Mojo, Ray Primm
One World Theatre: Stephen Bishop
The Parish: Lost River/Old River, Mother Falcon, Sleep Whale
The Scoot Inn: DJ Chicken George, Speak, Grupo Fantasma
Southwestern University: Corbin J. Robertson Center: Common
Saturday, February 27th:
Antone's: Marcia Ball (7pm); Smile to Smile, Love at War, Bob Schneider (9pm)
The Bugle Boy: Terri Hendrix
Gruene Hall: Gary Claxton, Erik Hokkanen (1pm), The Fabulous Thunderbirds (9pm)
Mi Casa Tamales: Arthur Yoria & La Guerilla
The Parish: Colin Herring, Ruby James, Austin Collins & the Rainbirds CD Release
Whip In: Lee Barber, Scrappy Jud Newcomb
Sunday, February 28th:
Antone's: Meals on Wheels Benefit w/ Ray Benson
The HighBall: Variety Show w/ Black Widow Burlesque, Troy Dillinger, Tom Booker, J.T. Habersaat, One-Eyed Doll
Lamberts: Black, Red & Black
The Scoot Inn: Wooden Birds, Ola Podrida
Monday, February 22nd:
Continental Club Gallery: Downtown Rulers Club, Bruce James Soultet
The Ghost Room: David Israel, We Landed on the Moon, Elsinore, The Sour Notes
Saxon Pub: Matt the Electrician, Nelo, Jeff Plankenhorn, Steven Ray Will
Tuesday, February 23rd:
Blues Tuesday w/ Derek O'Brien, Malford Milligan
Cactus Cafe: Chip Taylor
Continental Club: Gallery: Ephraim Owens Experience; In the Club: Toni Price, Mudphonic
Mohawk: The Old Believers, Cataldo, Laura Viers & the Hall of Flames
Momo's: Jeff Lofton Quartet, Naga Valli, Sageet Millenium, Austin Piazzolla Quintet
Wednesday, February 24th:
Antone's: Darren Hoff & the Hard Times, Driver, Walt Wilkins & the Mystiqueros, Kinky Friedman
Carousel Lounge: Kelly McFarling, Blake Langlintis, Jordan Moser, Sean Maloney, Rusty Scott & the Enormous Radio
The Driskill Lobby Bar: Idgy Vaughn
Emo's: Quiet Company, Scott Reynolds, Evan Dando
The Independent at 501 Studios: Brendan Benson
Lucky Lounge: Jeff Lofton Quartet (5:30); Ben Burgess (10:00)
Mohawk: Outside: Reece, Black Gold, Hot Chelle Rae, Sherwood (8pm); Inside Later: Title Tracks, Pretty & Nice (10pm)
The Parish: Warpaint, Akron/Family
Trailer Space Records & Events Center: The Golden Boys, Herman the German, A Giant Dog
Waterloo Records in-store: Chip Taylor (5pm)
Thursday, February 25th:
Antone's: The Fabulous Thunderbirds
Cactus Cafe: Gene Ween
Lambert's: Legs Against Arms, Sad Accordions
Lucky Lounge: Ian McLagan & the Bump Band, the Statesboro Revue (6pm)
Momo's: Nolapalooza w/ Little Elmore Reed, Greg Izor, Fat Man & Little Boy, Atomic Duo
Paramount Theatre: Keb' Mo'
Saxon Pub: David Holt & Tommy Shannon (6pm), George Harrison's Birthday w/ Darin Murphy, George Devore (8pm)
The Scoot Inn: Hilary York, Mistress Stephanie & Her Melodic Cat
Shangri-La: Bike for Your Rights, Who Hit Mariel Mentik Benefit w/ DJ Hobo D, Ben Blackout, Zlam Dunk, Book of Soundslisten to music by Book of Sounds, Ghost Knife, Broken Gold, Bike Problems, Minor Mishap
Friday, February 26th:
Antone's: Cory Morrow
Bass Concert Hall: Tegan & Sara
Cactus Cafe: Gene Ween
Chupacabra Mexican Restaurant: Dianne Whitehair Benefit w/ Baby Got Bacteria, Scary Mary, Stupid Drama, Juliana Murphy, Scorpio Rising
Emo's: Johnny Cash Bash w/ The Band in Black, The Derailers, Lucky Tubb & the Modern Day Troubadours, Skeleton, Brigitte London, Roger Wallace
Evangeline Cafe: Wendy Colonna
Gruene Hall: The Trishes, Nitty Gritty Dirt Band
Hogg Auditorium: Kristjan Jarvi's Absolute Ensemble
Hot Mama's Espresso Bar: Austin Go Girls w/ Gfire, Deann Rene
Jovita's: Cover Girl & friends Johnny Cash Hoot Night
Mean-Eyed Cat: Johnny Cash's Birthday w/ Zack Hruska, Damon Bramblett, Lucas Hudgins & the First Cousins (7:30)
One 2 One Bar: GB Mojo, Ray Primm
One World Theatre: Stephen Bishop
The Parish: Lost River/Old River, Mother Falcon, Sleep Whale
The Scoot Inn: DJ Chicken George, Speak, Grupo Fantasma
Southwestern University: Corbin J. Robertson Center: Common
Saturday, February 27th:
Antone's: Marcia Ball (7pm); Smile to Smile, Love at War, Bob Schneider (9pm)
The Bugle Boy: Terri Hendrix
Gruene Hall: Gary Claxton, Erik Hokkanen (1pm), The Fabulous Thunderbirds (9pm)
Mi Casa Tamales: Arthur Yoria & La Guerilla
The Parish: Colin Herring, Ruby James, Austin Collins & the Rainbirds CD Release
Whip In: Lee Barber, Scrappy Jud Newcomb
Sunday, February 28th:
Antone's: Meals on Wheels Benefit w/ Ray Benson
The HighBall: Variety Show w/ Black Widow Burlesque, Troy Dillinger, Tom Booker, J.T. Habersaat, One-Eyed Doll
Lamberts: Black, Red & Black
The Scoot Inn: Wooden Birds, Ola Podrida
Sunday, January 24, 2010
Austin Live Music Picks for the Week - Jan 25-31
Monday, January 25th:
Cactus Cafe: Jonathan Richman
Continental Club: Chaparral w/ Jeff Hughes
The Ghost Room: Erin Ivey, the Finest Kind
Ruta Maya: The Jitterbug Vipers
Saxon Pub: Bob Schneider, Jeff Plankenhorn
Waterloo Records: Spoon (in the parking lot) 4pm
Tuesday, January 26th:
Austin Music Hall: Derek O'Brien, Malford Milligan
Cactus Cafe: Jonathan Richman
Continental Club: Garllery: Ephraim Owens Experience; Club: Toni Price
Elephant Room: Brannen Temple Underground
Momo's: World Music w/ Arthur Yoria, Haydn Vitera, Naga Valli
vino vino: Stand with Haiti w/ Kat Edmonson, Ray Benson, Bruce Robison, Ephraim Owens
Wednesday, January 27th:
Antone's: Jay Farrar, Benjamin Gibbard
Continental Club: Jonathan Richman, James McMurtry
McCullough Theatre: Berlin Philharmonic Wind Quintet
Momo's: House of Songs w/ Jeremy Nail, Ted
Red 7: Trash Talk, Cancer Bats, Anti-Flag
Saxon Pub: Monte Montgomery, Walt Wilkins & the Mystiqueros, Ouachita
Thursday, January 28th:
Broken Spoke: Jesse Dayton
Continental Club: Izzy Cox, Jonathan Richman
Friends: Red Corner Rhymers, the Finest Kind
The Ghost Room: The Authors, New Roman Times
Momo's: Phil Marshall, Bob Floyd Band, Javi Garcia & the Cold Cold Ground, Nathan Hubble
One 2 One Bar: Spit & Tears, Mingo Fishtrap
The Parish: Drug Rug, Fiery Furnaces
Saxon Pub: Seth Walker, George Devore, Meggan Carney
Stubb's: Buttercup, Whitman, Quiet Company
Friday, January 29th:
The Bugle Boy: Seth Walker
Continental Club: Shurman CD Release, Bruce Robison
Coupland Dancehall: the Gourds
Elephant Room: Jitterbug Vipers Sextet
Emo's: Exene Cervenka, Dex Romweber Duo
End of an Ear: Exene Cervenka, Dex Romweber Duo (6pm)
Flipnotics: Whiskey Tango Family Band
Hanover's: Patricia Vonne, Del Castillo
Hogg Auditorium: Yuri Yunakov Ensemble
Hot Mama's Espresso Bar: Austin GoGirls Open Mic w/ gfire
Jovita's: Erin Bertolini, Annita Herrera, Morgan McFall
Momo's: Jarrod Dickenson, Big Circle, TX, the Belleville Outfit, Shawn Nelson & the Ramblers
One World Theatre: Big Bad Voodoo Daddy
The Parish: Smith Westerns, Magic Kids, Girls
Saxon Pub: BettySoo, Paula Nelson, Carolyn Wonderland
Stubb's: MyNameIsJohnMichael, the Soldier Thread
Waterloo Records in-store: Girls (5pm)
Saturday, January 30th:
Elephant Room: Kat Edmonson Quintet
Flipnotics: House of Songs w/ Peter Smith, Devin James, Vanessa Lively, Lance Sollock, So Long Problems, Tiny Tin Hearts
Hanover's: Skyrocket!
Jack's Roadhouse: Cover Girl's 1st Birthday Party
Jovita's: Katie Evans, Inne Aguilar, Dawni McCray, Ginger Thompson, Stephanie Cavazos
Mi Casa Tamales: Bubba Hernandez y Los Super Vatos
One World Theatre: Travelin' McCourys
The Parish: Paco Estrada, Nothing More, Petals, Mothers Anthem, Eyes Burn Electric CD Release
Poodie's Hilltop Bar & Grill: Catch a Dream, Toni Price
Saxon Pub: Joel Guzman & Sarah Fox, Uncle Lucius, Ouachita CD Release
Sengelmann Hall: White Ghost Shivers
Whip In: Lee Barber, Scrappy Jud Newcomb
Sunday, January 31st:
The Bugle Boy: Marcia Ball
Klub Krucial: ATX Awakening w/ Bulletproof, Rawstin City, Razor, Lil' Tay, Swag Heart, Myeshia, DOP, 1 of a Kind, 25 Mafia, Texas Mic Breakers, No Brakes Just Gas, Young Hustillionaire
Lamberts: Black Red & Black
The Parish: The Cipher, Public Offenders, Blacklisted Individuals, Gidon the Mighty Warrior
Saxon Pub: Lincoln Durham, the Resentments, the Iveys
Speakeasy: Tavana
Stubb's: NIc Cowan, Bleu Edmondson
Cactus Cafe: Jonathan Richman
Continental Club: Chaparral w/ Jeff Hughes
The Ghost Room: Erin Ivey, the Finest Kind
Ruta Maya: The Jitterbug Vipers
Saxon Pub: Bob Schneider, Jeff Plankenhorn
Waterloo Records: Spoon (in the parking lot) 4pm
Tuesday, January 26th:
Austin Music Hall: Derek O'Brien, Malford Milligan
Cactus Cafe: Jonathan Richman
Continental Club: Garllery: Ephraim Owens Experience; Club: Toni Price
Elephant Room: Brannen Temple Underground
Momo's: World Music w/ Arthur Yoria, Haydn Vitera, Naga Valli
vino vino: Stand with Haiti w/ Kat Edmonson, Ray Benson, Bruce Robison, Ephraim Owens
Wednesday, January 27th:
Antone's: Jay Farrar, Benjamin Gibbard
Continental Club: Jonathan Richman, James McMurtry
McCullough Theatre: Berlin Philharmonic Wind Quintet
Momo's: House of Songs w/ Jeremy Nail, Ted
Red 7: Trash Talk, Cancer Bats, Anti-Flag
Saxon Pub: Monte Montgomery, Walt Wilkins & the Mystiqueros, Ouachita
Thursday, January 28th:
Broken Spoke: Jesse Dayton
Continental Club: Izzy Cox, Jonathan Richman
Friends: Red Corner Rhymers, the Finest Kind
The Ghost Room: The Authors, New Roman Times
Momo's: Phil Marshall, Bob Floyd Band, Javi Garcia & the Cold Cold Ground, Nathan Hubble
One 2 One Bar: Spit & Tears, Mingo Fishtrap
The Parish: Drug Rug, Fiery Furnaces
Saxon Pub: Seth Walker, George Devore, Meggan Carney
Stubb's: Buttercup, Whitman, Quiet Company
Friday, January 29th:
The Bugle Boy: Seth Walker
Continental Club: Shurman CD Release, Bruce Robison
Coupland Dancehall: the Gourds
Elephant Room: Jitterbug Vipers Sextet
Emo's: Exene Cervenka, Dex Romweber Duo
End of an Ear: Exene Cervenka, Dex Romweber Duo (6pm)
Flipnotics: Whiskey Tango Family Band
Hanover's: Patricia Vonne, Del Castillo
Hogg Auditorium: Yuri Yunakov Ensemble
Hot Mama's Espresso Bar: Austin GoGirls Open Mic w/ gfire
Jovita's: Erin Bertolini, Annita Herrera, Morgan McFall
Momo's: Jarrod Dickenson, Big Circle, TX, the Belleville Outfit, Shawn Nelson & the Ramblers
One World Theatre: Big Bad Voodoo Daddy
The Parish: Smith Westerns, Magic Kids, Girls
Saxon Pub: BettySoo, Paula Nelson, Carolyn Wonderland
Stubb's: MyNameIsJohnMichael, the Soldier Thread
Waterloo Records in-store: Girls (5pm)
Saturday, January 30th:
Elephant Room: Kat Edmonson Quintet
Flipnotics: House of Songs w/ Peter Smith, Devin James, Vanessa Lively, Lance Sollock, So Long Problems, Tiny Tin Hearts
Hanover's: Skyrocket!
Jack's Roadhouse: Cover Girl's 1st Birthday Party
Jovita's: Katie Evans, Inne Aguilar, Dawni McCray, Ginger Thompson, Stephanie Cavazos
Mi Casa Tamales: Bubba Hernandez y Los Super Vatos
One World Theatre: Travelin' McCourys
The Parish: Paco Estrada, Nothing More, Petals, Mothers Anthem, Eyes Burn Electric CD Release
Poodie's Hilltop Bar & Grill: Catch a Dream, Toni Price
Saxon Pub: Joel Guzman & Sarah Fox, Uncle Lucius, Ouachita CD Release
Sengelmann Hall: White Ghost Shivers
Whip In: Lee Barber, Scrappy Jud Newcomb
Sunday, January 31st:
The Bugle Boy: Marcia Ball
Klub Krucial: ATX Awakening w/ Bulletproof, Rawstin City, Razor, Lil' Tay, Swag Heart, Myeshia, DOP, 1 of a Kind, 25 Mafia, Texas Mic Breakers, No Brakes Just Gas, Young Hustillionaire
Lamberts: Black Red & Black
The Parish: The Cipher, Public Offenders, Blacklisted Individuals, Gidon the Mighty Warrior
Saxon Pub: Lincoln Durham, the Resentments, the Iveys
Speakeasy: Tavana
Stubb's: NIc Cowan, Bleu Edmondson
Lissie
If you weren't one of the lucky few who got a ticket to see Lissie open for City and Colour last Thursday at Central Presbyterian Church in Austin, I won't rub it in except for saying this - it was a killer show and she is even more impressive live than I expected. She and her band were stellar and passionate enough to make you feel like it was their first time playing these songs live. And, as a side note, I met her and her down-to-earth attitude and approachability made me like her even more.
Here are a couple of links to check out for more on Lissie. I can hardly wait for her full-length to come out - the EP is not enough. Gimme more!
Live on KCRW's Morning Becomes Eclectic
Daytrotter Session
Here are a couple of links to check out for more on Lissie. I can hardly wait for her full-length to come out - the EP is not enough. Gimme more!
Live on KCRW's Morning Becomes Eclectic
Daytrotter Session
Sunday, January 17, 2010
Austin Show Picks for January 18-24
Monday, January 18th:
The Ghost Room: Erin Ivey, the Finest Kind
Hutson-Tillotson University: MLK Celebration w/ Les & the Funk Mob, Neckbone
Saxon Pub: Matt the Electrician, Bob Schneider, Jeff Plankenhorn, George Stathakes
Tuesday, January 19th:
Antone's: Blue Tuesday w/ Derek O'Brien, Malford Milligan
Cactus Cafe: Scott Miller
Continental Cafe: Gallery: Ephraim Owens Experience; In the Club: Toni Price (6:30pm)
Emo's: White Dress, Jemina Pearl
Evangeline Cafe: Brennen Leigh, Kevin Gallaugher
Mohawk: Zorch, Movits!
Momo's: Charanga Si, Oliver Rajamani, Ahmed Arbab
The Parish: Icon Awards w/ Stanley Samuelsen, The Black & White Years
Trailer Space Records & Events Center: No Mas Bodas, Night Viking, Jack Toft & the Vegetables
Wednesday, January 20th:
Antone's: Ginger Leigh, Blues Mafia, Zapata
Central Market South: Malford Milligan & John Gaar
Club Deville: Downtown Rulers Club
Hole in the Wall: Shotgun Party, Chaparral w/ Jeff Hughes, Wild Bill
Mohawk: Dikes of Holland, John Schooley, Possessed by Paul James
Momo's: Noelle Hampton, Greg Schroeder, Drew Smith
Saxon Pub: The Nortons, Monte Montgomery, Walt Wilkins @ the Mystiqueros, Ouachita
Stubb's: Mahoney, Courrier, Language Room
Thursday, January 21st:
Central Presbyterian Church: City & Colour, Lissie
Cheatham Street Warehouse: Cory Morrow
Hole in the Wall: Waldo Wittenmeyer & the Wall of Sound, the Bubbles, Scan Hopper
Maria's Taco Xpress: Sin City presents Happy Now Happy Hour with Ruby James and Friends
Mohawk: Shapes Stars Make
Momo's: Phil Marshall, the Coffee Sergeants, Guy Forsyth, T Bird & the Breaks
Paramount Theatre: Grounded in Music Fundraiser w/ Patty Griffin, Jack Ingram
Saxon Pub: David Holt & Tommy Shannon, Jarrod Dickenson, George Devore, Meggan Careny
Stubb': St Cloud, Magnet School. the Morakestra
Vino Vino: Stand With Haiti Benefit w/ Kat Edmonson & Friends
Friday, January 22nd:
The Bugle Boy: Eliza Gilkyson
Cactus Cafe: Jimmy LaFave
Cheatham Street Warehouse: Marcia Ball
Jovita's: The Katies
One World Theatre: David Benoit
The Parish: Danny Malone, Matthew & the Arrogant Sea
Saxon Pub: Earl Poole Ball & the Cosmic Americans, Willy Porter, Akina Adderley & the Vintage Playboys
Saturday, January 23rd:
Black Swan Yoga: Katie Gray
Cactus Cafe: Billy Bright & Chojo Jacques, Eliza Gilkyson
Momo's: Wenda Colonna
One 2 One Bar: Kalu James
The Parish: Dead Trees, Adam Green, the Cribs
Stubb's: English Teeth, the Ripe, the Ugly Beats
Whip In: Lee Barber, Scrappy Jud Newcomb
Sunday, January 24th:
Austin Music Hall: Help Austin Help Haiti benefit w/ Asleep at the Wheel, Guy Forsyth, Patricia Vonne, Band of Heathens, the Gourds, Paula Nelson, Bob Schneider, Jack Ingram, Ray Wylie Hubbard, Bruce Robison, Joe Ely Band, Reckless Kelly, Charlie Sexton, Kelly Willis, Robert Earl Keen, The Flatlanders, Kinky Friedman & Shawn Colvin
Jovita's: Whiskey Tango Band
Lamberts: Black Red & Black
Momo's: Bustamoovalators, Chicken Strut, Afrofreque, Dan Dyer Band, Cry Bear (David Garza & co)
Speakeasy: Tavana
Waterloo Ice House: Jeff Lofton
The Ghost Room: Erin Ivey, the Finest Kind
Hutson-Tillotson University: MLK Celebration w/ Les & the Funk Mob, Neckbone
Saxon Pub: Matt the Electrician, Bob Schneider, Jeff Plankenhorn, George Stathakes
Tuesday, January 19th:
Antone's: Blue Tuesday w/ Derek O'Brien, Malford Milligan
Cactus Cafe: Scott Miller
Continental Cafe: Gallery: Ephraim Owens Experience; In the Club: Toni Price (6:30pm)
Emo's: White Dress, Jemina Pearl
Evangeline Cafe: Brennen Leigh, Kevin Gallaugher
Mohawk: Zorch, Movits!
Momo's: Charanga Si, Oliver Rajamani, Ahmed Arbab
The Parish: Icon Awards w/ Stanley Samuelsen, The Black & White Years
Trailer Space Records & Events Center: No Mas Bodas, Night Viking, Jack Toft & the Vegetables
Wednesday, January 20th:
Antone's: Ginger Leigh, Blues Mafia, Zapata
Central Market South: Malford Milligan & John Gaar
Club Deville: Downtown Rulers Club
Hole in the Wall: Shotgun Party, Chaparral w/ Jeff Hughes, Wild Bill
Mohawk: Dikes of Holland, John Schooley, Possessed by Paul James
Momo's: Noelle Hampton, Greg Schroeder, Drew Smith
Saxon Pub: The Nortons, Monte Montgomery, Walt Wilkins @ the Mystiqueros, Ouachita
Stubb's: Mahoney, Courrier, Language Room
Thursday, January 21st:
Central Presbyterian Church: City & Colour, Lissie
Cheatham Street Warehouse: Cory Morrow
Hole in the Wall: Waldo Wittenmeyer & the Wall of Sound, the Bubbles, Scan Hopper
Maria's Taco Xpress: Sin City presents Happy Now Happy Hour with Ruby James and Friends
Mohawk: Shapes Stars Make
Momo's: Phil Marshall, the Coffee Sergeants, Guy Forsyth, T Bird & the Breaks
Paramount Theatre: Grounded in Music Fundraiser w/ Patty Griffin, Jack Ingram
Saxon Pub: David Holt & Tommy Shannon, Jarrod Dickenson, George Devore, Meggan Careny
Stubb': St Cloud, Magnet School. the Morakestra
Vino Vino: Stand With Haiti Benefit w/ Kat Edmonson & Friends
Friday, January 22nd:
The Bugle Boy: Eliza Gilkyson
Cactus Cafe: Jimmy LaFave
Cheatham Street Warehouse: Marcia Ball
Jovita's: The Katies
One World Theatre: David Benoit
The Parish: Danny Malone, Matthew & the Arrogant Sea
Saxon Pub: Earl Poole Ball & the Cosmic Americans, Willy Porter, Akina Adderley & the Vintage Playboys
Saturday, January 23rd:
Black Swan Yoga: Katie Gray
Cactus Cafe: Billy Bright & Chojo Jacques, Eliza Gilkyson
Momo's: Wenda Colonna
One 2 One Bar: Kalu James
The Parish: Dead Trees, Adam Green, the Cribs
Stubb's: English Teeth, the Ripe, the Ugly Beats
Whip In: Lee Barber, Scrappy Jud Newcomb
Sunday, January 24th:
Austin Music Hall: Help Austin Help Haiti benefit w/ Asleep at the Wheel, Guy Forsyth, Patricia Vonne, Band of Heathens, the Gourds, Paula Nelson, Bob Schneider, Jack Ingram, Ray Wylie Hubbard, Bruce Robison, Joe Ely Band, Reckless Kelly, Charlie Sexton, Kelly Willis, Robert Earl Keen, The Flatlanders, Kinky Friedman & Shawn Colvin
Jovita's: Whiskey Tango Band
Lamberts: Black Red & Black
Momo's: Bustamoovalators, Chicken Strut, Afrofreque, Dan Dyer Band, Cry Bear (David Garza & co)
Speakeasy: Tavana
Waterloo Ice House: Jeff Lofton
Sunday, January 03, 2010
Austin Music Picks for the Week - Jan 4-10
Monday, January 4th:
Beauty Bar: Major Major Major
Emo's: Free Week, Outside: Literature, Bear Claw, Cowabunga Babez, JC & Co., The Carrots; Inside: Scrabble Robot, Hoodrats, Flash Boys, Dolls from the Crypt, Children in Heat
Lucky Lounge: the Malakani Movement
Mohawk: Baron Grod
Saxon Pub: Meggan Carney, Nelo, Jeff Plankenhorn
Tuesday, January 5th:
Antone's: Derek O'Brien, Malford Milligan
Beauty Bar: Free Week w/ EZ Action!, SuperLiteBike, The Always Already, Planet Rye co, The Criminal Kind, & DJ Scorpio
Emo's: Free Week, Outside: Coma in Algiers, Elvis, Low Red Center, Diagonals, Mutating Meltdown; Inside: Horse+Donkey, The Gospel Truth, No Mas Bodas, Pataphysics
Evangeline Cafe: Brennen Leigh (6pm), Kevin Gallaugher (8pm)
Flipnotics: Lost & Nameless Orchestra, Erik Hokkanen's Laboratory
The Ghost Room: Nic Armstrong
Momo's: World Music Night w/ Austin Piazzolla Quintet, Kiko Villamizar (of Xemilla), Ahmed Arbab
Mohawk: Free Week w/ Ovenbirds, String, Obsolete Machines
Red 7: Free Week w/ the Anchor, O Pioneers!, Lemuria, Cruiserweight
Red Fez: Benmused Showcase, Twist Up w/ DJ Manny
Wednesday, January 6th:
Beauty Bar: Free Week w/ Stereo Is a Lie, Strange Attractors, She Sir, New Roman Times
Club de Ville: Free Week w/ Mobley, Vinhomudeh, Honky
Continental Club: Gallery: Jon Blondell, Trube, Farrell & Sniz; In the Club: Lisa Marshall
Emo's: Free Week, Outside: Oh No Oh My, Ovenbirds, the Laughing, Brothers and Sisters; Inside: 13th Victim, the Bulemics, Born to Lose, New Disaster
Flipnotics: George Carver, Matt the Electrician, Nicole Reynolds, Danny Malone, Graham Wilkinson
The Parish: Free Week w/ Wine & Revolution, Hollywood Gossip, Politics
Red 7: Free Week w/ Opposite Day, Frantic Clam, The Gary, Midgetmen, La Snacks
Saxon Pub: the Nortons, Monte Montgomery, Douglas Jay Boyd, Ouachita
Thursday, January 7th:
Beerland: Free Week w/ Black Panda, John Schooley & His One Man Band
Emo's: Free Week, Outside: Heart & Soul Sound System, the Sandworms, Nick Curran & the Lowlifes, Skeletons, the Jungle Rockers; Inside: the Eastern Sea, Haunting Oboe Music, Red Leaves, YellowFever, Moth Fight
Lambert's: John Pointer, Chris Hawkes
Lucky Lounge: Ian McLagan & the Bump Band
Mohawk: Free Week, Outside: the Great Nostalgic, TV Torso; Inside: Many Birthdays, Daniel Francis Doyle, Transmography, Ume
Momo's: Phil Marshall, Noelle Hampton, Javi Garcia & the Cold Cold Ground, Nathan Hubble
The Parish: Free Week w/ Sounds Under Radio, Suzanna Choffel (full band), Zookeeper, Wiretree, DJ Markus with a K
Red 7: Free Week, Inside: Get Action; Outside: Flowers, Cowabunga Babez, the Strange Attractors, Shapes Have Fangs, Hacienda
Stubb's: Free Week w/ Jessi Torissi, White Dress, the White Hotel
Friday, January 8th:
Antone's: the Wailers
Club de Ville: Free Week w/ Candi & the Strangers; She, Sir; Corto Maltese
Jovita's: Cover Girl and friends - Happy Birthday David Bowie Hoot Night
Mohawk: Free Week, Outside: Motel Aviv, Low Line Caller, the Laughing; Inside: Cartright, the Tunnels, Headdress, Christian Bland & the Revelators
The Parish: Free Week w/ L.A.X., Auto Body, Freshmillions (with members of The Sword), GOBI, DJ Thibault
Saxon Pub: Earl Poole Ball & the Cosmic Americans
Saturday, January 9th:
Club de Ville: Free Week w/ Haunting Oboe Music, Watch Out for Rockets, Burning Hotels
Flamingo Cantina: Don Chani, the Melodians
Mohawk: Free Week, Outside: the Hi-Tones, the Ugly Beats, the Carrots, T Bird & the Breaks; Inside: the Clouds are Ghosts, No Mas Bodas, Death Is Not a Joyride, Missions
Stubb's: Free Week w/ Danny Malone, the Pons, Leatherbag
Whip In: Lee Barber, Scrappy Jud Newcomb (7pm)
Sunday, January 10th:
Artz Rib House: Friends of Traditional Music Records Nite
Ginny's Little Longhorn: Dale Watson
Sengelmann Hall: Holub Polka Band
Speakeasy: Tavana
Beauty Bar: Major Major Major
Emo's: Free Week, Outside: Literature, Bear Claw, Cowabunga Babez, JC & Co., The Carrots; Inside: Scrabble Robot, Hoodrats, Flash Boys, Dolls from the Crypt, Children in Heat
Lucky Lounge: the Malakani Movement
Mohawk: Baron Grod
Saxon Pub: Meggan Carney, Nelo, Jeff Plankenhorn
Tuesday, January 5th:
Antone's: Derek O'Brien, Malford Milligan
Beauty Bar: Free Week w/ EZ Action!, SuperLiteBike, The Always Already, Planet Rye co, The Criminal Kind, & DJ Scorpio
Emo's: Free Week, Outside: Coma in Algiers, Elvis, Low Red Center, Diagonals, Mutating Meltdown; Inside: Horse+Donkey, The Gospel Truth, No Mas Bodas, Pataphysics
Evangeline Cafe: Brennen Leigh (6pm), Kevin Gallaugher (8pm)
Flipnotics: Lost & Nameless Orchestra, Erik Hokkanen's Laboratory
The Ghost Room: Nic Armstrong
Momo's: World Music Night w/ Austin Piazzolla Quintet, Kiko Villamizar (of Xemilla), Ahmed Arbab
Mohawk: Free Week w/ Ovenbirds, String, Obsolete Machines
Red 7: Free Week w/ the Anchor, O Pioneers!, Lemuria, Cruiserweight
Red Fez: Benmused Showcase, Twist Up w/ DJ Manny
Wednesday, January 6th:
Beauty Bar: Free Week w/ Stereo Is a Lie, Strange Attractors, She Sir, New Roman Times
Club de Ville: Free Week w/ Mobley, Vinhomudeh, Honky
Continental Club: Gallery: Jon Blondell, Trube, Farrell & Sniz; In the Club: Lisa Marshall
Emo's: Free Week, Outside: Oh No Oh My, Ovenbirds, the Laughing, Brothers and Sisters; Inside: 13th Victim, the Bulemics, Born to Lose, New Disaster
Flipnotics: George Carver, Matt the Electrician, Nicole Reynolds, Danny Malone, Graham Wilkinson
The Parish: Free Week w/ Wine & Revolution, Hollywood Gossip, Politics
Red 7: Free Week w/ Opposite Day, Frantic Clam, The Gary, Midgetmen, La Snacks
Saxon Pub: the Nortons, Monte Montgomery, Douglas Jay Boyd, Ouachita
Thursday, January 7th:
Beerland: Free Week w/ Black Panda, John Schooley & His One Man Band
Emo's: Free Week, Outside: Heart & Soul Sound System, the Sandworms, Nick Curran & the Lowlifes, Skeletons, the Jungle Rockers; Inside: the Eastern Sea, Haunting Oboe Music, Red Leaves, YellowFever, Moth Fight
Lambert's: John Pointer, Chris Hawkes
Lucky Lounge: Ian McLagan & the Bump Band
Mohawk: Free Week, Outside: the Great Nostalgic, TV Torso; Inside: Many Birthdays, Daniel Francis Doyle, Transmography, Ume
Momo's: Phil Marshall, Noelle Hampton, Javi Garcia & the Cold Cold Ground, Nathan Hubble
The Parish: Free Week w/ Sounds Under Radio, Suzanna Choffel (full band), Zookeeper, Wiretree, DJ Markus with a K
Red 7: Free Week, Inside: Get Action; Outside: Flowers, Cowabunga Babez, the Strange Attractors, Shapes Have Fangs, Hacienda
Stubb's: Free Week w/ Jessi Torissi, White Dress, the White Hotel
Friday, January 8th:
Antone's: the Wailers
Club de Ville: Free Week w/ Candi & the Strangers; She, Sir; Corto Maltese
Jovita's: Cover Girl and friends - Happy Birthday David Bowie Hoot Night
Mohawk: Free Week, Outside: Motel Aviv, Low Line Caller, the Laughing; Inside: Cartright, the Tunnels, Headdress, Christian Bland & the Revelators
The Parish: Free Week w/ L.A.X., Auto Body, Freshmillions (with members of The Sword), GOBI, DJ Thibault
Saxon Pub: Earl Poole Ball & the Cosmic Americans
Saturday, January 9th:
Club de Ville: Free Week w/ Haunting Oboe Music, Watch Out for Rockets, Burning Hotels
Flamingo Cantina: Don Chani, the Melodians
Mohawk: Free Week, Outside: the Hi-Tones, the Ugly Beats, the Carrots, T Bird & the Breaks; Inside: the Clouds are Ghosts, No Mas Bodas, Death Is Not a Joyride, Missions
Stubb's: Free Week w/ Danny Malone, the Pons, Leatherbag
Whip In: Lee Barber, Scrappy Jud Newcomb (7pm)
Sunday, January 10th:
Artz Rib House: Friends of Traditional Music Records Nite
Ginny's Little Longhorn: Dale Watson
Sengelmann Hall: Holub Polka Band
Speakeasy: Tavana
Thursday, December 31, 2009
TraceInvader's Favorite Albums of 2009
This is one of the most fun, self-indulgent things I do all year. Revisiting all of the music I enjoyed (and discovering a few things I wasn't listening to) is like going back to every stellar meal I had and getting a re-do without having to count calories... mmm... the escargot and fig martinis of tuneage.
I like to call this a "favorites" list instead of a "best of" list because music, like all art, is so subjective. What touches, titillates, inspires someone all depends on personal preference and what is happening in your world at that moment. For my own reasons, these are my top 13 albums of 2009 in no particular (ok, alphabetical) order.
1. Bat for Lashes - Two Suns: I loved Fur and Gold. I think Two Suns surpasses it. Natasha Khan (aka Bat for Lashes) is a true artist whose music is tough to categorize. Expansive, orchestral, dramatic and beautiful.
2. Danger Mouse and Sparklehorse - Dark Night of the Soul: You have to dig a little bit to find this in a place you can still download it. Here's a hint. This album is a collaboration between Danger Mouse and Sparklehorse with featured singers you may have heard of like The Shins, Frank Black, Julian Casablancas, and Vic Chesnutt. It's designed to accompany a photo book by David Lynch. (Anyone remember the mysterious posters that were displayed around Austin during SXSW last year?) It's a little bit dark, multilayered and pretty.. go get it.
3. El Perro del Mar - Love Is Not Pop: It's no surprise that El Perro del Mar has collaborated with Lykke Li. Her sound is very similar and, like Lykke Li, her lyrics may not always be deep but this album is really listenable and loveable. (Unintentional use of alliteration there..Lordy!)
4. Florence + the Machine - Lungs: I shouldn't have waited so long to get this- I mean, it's been out since July. Florence Welch has a voice that can definitely fit in among the other British soul crooners like Adele and Amy Winehouse but she adds extra layers of instruments and unexpected twists that remind me more of My Brightest Diamond than Lily Allen.
5. The Grouch & Eligh - Say G&E!: First heard this album thanks to a Paste Magazine download and was immediately hooked. West Coast members of the Living Legends crew (including Aesop and Scarab) with positive lyrics, kickass hooks and production. Really, really fun to listen to from start to finish with no hos or snow.
6. Jay-Z - The Blueprint 3: It's HOVA. He's back. I mean, Empire State of Mind is worth the price of admission alone. Enough said.
7. Lissie - Why You Runnin' I have a friend over at Nettwerk who introduced me to Lissie and I heard her play live on KCRW shortly afterward. This is her debut album and, if it's any indication of where she's going, we'll be hearing a lot more about her. Stellar songwriting - beautiful, at times heart-wrenching, songs.
8. Metric - Fantasies: Emily Haines' of Broken Social Scene's "side project" - I've listened to this over and over again. I wouldn't necessarily say it's a breakthrough album but it is really solid and manages to tow that thin line between gloomy and danceable, which is a kind of bipolar I can always get behind.
9. Miike Snow - s/t: Thanks to RCRDLBL, I heard some of this album (and remixes of the original songs) pretty early on. Always liked it but it's continued to move up in my '09 rankings the more I listen to it. Swedish guys with a knack for pop with a fuzzy edge.
10. Mos Def - The Ecstatic: I've got an enormous amount of respect for Mos Def but can't really say I've ever wanted to put on one of his albums and listen to it all the way through. Not so with this one. It's the Mos Def you know who writes meaningful, inspiring poetry but it's hooky and makes you want to bounce.
11. Raekwon - Only Built 4 Cuban Linx, Pt. 2: No shocker that this is stylistically similar to Ghostface Killah since they are both part of the Wu-Tang Clan. It's a sequel to Raekwon's solo debut back in 1995 and, although I never listened to the '95 album, I'm tempted to go back and get it now that I'm hooked on Pt 2. It's predictably dark but it's good.
12. Regina Spektor - Far: Always a big fan of Regina Spektor's, I expected I would enjoy Far but I was surprised just how much. She is consistently amazing - lyrically, musically, and magical-vibe-ly.
13. Various Artists - Dark Was the Night: Featuring a top-notch cast of artists including David Byrne, Bon Iver, Grizzly Bear, Sufjan Stevens, Jose Gonzalez, and Dave Sitek, this compilation is one of the few I've heard that goes to a good cause (Red Hot Organization, raising awareness for HIV/AIDS) and is actually a killer album. It's a 31-song set and there aren't many throwaways on here.
And now, for the Runners-Up:
Amadou & Mariam – Welcome to Mali
Animal Collective – Merriweather Post Pavilion
Antony & the Johnsons – The Crying Light
The Avett Brothers - I And Love And You
Billy Harvey – The Everlasting War
Bon Iver – Blood Bank
Camera Obscura – My Maudlin Career
Dirty Projectors – Bitte Orca
Drake – So Far Gone
Elvis Perkins In Dearland – s/t
Fanfarlo – Reservoir
Girls – Album
Grizzly Bear – Veckatimest
Harlem Shakes – Technicolor Health
Heartless Bastards – The Mountain
Japandroids – Post-Nothing
Loch Lomond – Night Bats
Micachu – Jewellery
Neko Case – Middle Cyclone
The Pains of Being Pure at Heart – s/t
Passion Pit – Manners
Phoenix – Wolfgang Amadeus Phoenix
Silversun Pickups – Swoon
St. Vincent – Actor
Tegan & Sara - Sainthood
Wale – Attention Deficit
The XX – XX
I like to call this a "favorites" list instead of a "best of" list because music, like all art, is so subjective. What touches, titillates, inspires someone all depends on personal preference and what is happening in your world at that moment. For my own reasons, these are my top 13 albums of 2009 in no particular (ok, alphabetical) order.
1. Bat for Lashes - Two Suns: I loved Fur and Gold. I think Two Suns surpasses it. Natasha Khan (aka Bat for Lashes) is a true artist whose music is tough to categorize. Expansive, orchestral, dramatic and beautiful.
2. Danger Mouse and Sparklehorse - Dark Night of the Soul: You have to dig a little bit to find this in a place you can still download it. Here's a hint. This album is a collaboration between Danger Mouse and Sparklehorse with featured singers you may have heard of like The Shins, Frank Black, Julian Casablancas, and Vic Chesnutt. It's designed to accompany a photo book by David Lynch. (Anyone remember the mysterious posters that were displayed around Austin during SXSW last year?) It's a little bit dark, multilayered and pretty.. go get it.
3. El Perro del Mar - Love Is Not Pop: It's no surprise that El Perro del Mar has collaborated with Lykke Li. Her sound is very similar and, like Lykke Li, her lyrics may not always be deep but this album is really listenable and loveable. (Unintentional use of alliteration there..Lordy!)
4. Florence + the Machine - Lungs: I shouldn't have waited so long to get this- I mean, it's been out since July. Florence Welch has a voice that can definitely fit in among the other British soul crooners like Adele and Amy Winehouse but she adds extra layers of instruments and unexpected twists that remind me more of My Brightest Diamond than Lily Allen.
5. The Grouch & Eligh - Say G&E!: First heard this album thanks to a Paste Magazine download and was immediately hooked. West Coast members of the Living Legends crew (including Aesop and Scarab) with positive lyrics, kickass hooks and production. Really, really fun to listen to from start to finish with no hos or snow.
6. Jay-Z - The Blueprint 3: It's HOVA. He's back. I mean, Empire State of Mind is worth the price of admission alone. Enough said.
7. Lissie - Why You Runnin' I have a friend over at Nettwerk who introduced me to Lissie and I heard her play live on KCRW shortly afterward. This is her debut album and, if it's any indication of where she's going, we'll be hearing a lot more about her. Stellar songwriting - beautiful, at times heart-wrenching, songs.
8. Metric - Fantasies: Emily Haines' of Broken Social Scene's "side project" - I've listened to this over and over again. I wouldn't necessarily say it's a breakthrough album but it is really solid and manages to tow that thin line between gloomy and danceable, which is a kind of bipolar I can always get behind.
9. Miike Snow - s/t: Thanks to RCRDLBL, I heard some of this album (and remixes of the original songs) pretty early on. Always liked it but it's continued to move up in my '09 rankings the more I listen to it. Swedish guys with a knack for pop with a fuzzy edge.
10. Mos Def - The Ecstatic: I've got an enormous amount of respect for Mos Def but can't really say I've ever wanted to put on one of his albums and listen to it all the way through. Not so with this one. It's the Mos Def you know who writes meaningful, inspiring poetry but it's hooky and makes you want to bounce.
11. Raekwon - Only Built 4 Cuban Linx, Pt. 2: No shocker that this is stylistically similar to Ghostface Killah since they are both part of the Wu-Tang Clan. It's a sequel to Raekwon's solo debut back in 1995 and, although I never listened to the '95 album, I'm tempted to go back and get it now that I'm hooked on Pt 2. It's predictably dark but it's good.
12. Regina Spektor - Far: Always a big fan of Regina Spektor's, I expected I would enjoy Far but I was surprised just how much. She is consistently amazing - lyrically, musically, and magical-vibe-ly.
13. Various Artists - Dark Was the Night: Featuring a top-notch cast of artists including David Byrne, Bon Iver, Grizzly Bear, Sufjan Stevens, Jose Gonzalez, and Dave Sitek, this compilation is one of the few I've heard that goes to a good cause (Red Hot Organization, raising awareness for HIV/AIDS) and is actually a killer album. It's a 31-song set and there aren't many throwaways on here.
And now, for the Runners-Up:
Amadou & Mariam – Welcome to Mali
Animal Collective – Merriweather Post Pavilion
Antony & the Johnsons – The Crying Light
The Avett Brothers - I And Love And You
Billy Harvey – The Everlasting War
Bon Iver – Blood Bank
Camera Obscura – My Maudlin Career
Dirty Projectors – Bitte Orca
Drake – So Far Gone
Elvis Perkins In Dearland – s/t
Fanfarlo – Reservoir
Girls – Album
Grizzly Bear – Veckatimest
Harlem Shakes – Technicolor Health
Heartless Bastards – The Mountain
Japandroids – Post-Nothing
Loch Lomond – Night Bats
Micachu – Jewellery
Neko Case – Middle Cyclone
The Pains of Being Pure at Heart – s/t
Passion Pit – Manners
Phoenix – Wolfgang Amadeus Phoenix
Silversun Pickups – Swoon
St. Vincent – Actor
Tegan & Sara - Sainthood
Wale – Attention Deficit
The XX – XX
Sunday, December 27, 2009
Austin Music Picks for the Week - Dec 28-Jan 3
After what feels like a long hiatus, we had to come back for show picks this week. With the New Year just around the corner, there's some kickass music going on in Austin.
Stay tuned for TraceInvader favorites of 2009...
Monday, December 28th:
Antone's: The Happen-Ins, Sideshow Tramps, Hayes Carll
Club 1808: Hotel Hotel, Bryce Eiman, Andrew Weathers
Frank Erwin Center: Trans-Siberian Orchestra
The Ghost Room: Paul Green School of Rock Music, Red Corner Rhymers
Momo's: Rebecca Pronsky, Beckham Bros., Dustin Welch, Brandon Jenkins, Rich O'Toole
Paramount: Woody Allen & His New Orleans Jazz Band
Saxon Pub: Matt the Electrician, Bob Schneider, Jeff Plankenhorn
Tuesday, December 29th:
Continental Club: Gallery: Ephraim Owens Experience; In the Club: Toni Price (6:30), Alejandro Escovedo, the Frank Mustard Project
Elephant Room: Brannen Temple Quartet
Emo's: Go Action Team, Fit for Rivals, Red Jumpsuit Apparatus
Momo's: World Music Night w/ Naga Valli, the Batikum, Austin Piazzolla Quintet
Wednesday, December 30th:
Antone's: the Scabs
Continental Club: Lisa Marshall, Jon Dee Graham, James McMurtry
Gruene Hall: the Trishes, Band of Heathens
Momo's: Kacy Crowley, Greg Schroeder, Drew Smith, Jessi Torissi, Deadman, Suzanna Choffel
Palmer Events Center: Duke Ellington Orchestra, Austin Symphony Orchestra
Saxon Pub: Monte Montgomery, Carolyn Wonderland
Thursday, December 31st:
Antone's: Dale Watson, Joe Ely & the Reunion Band
Austin Music Hall: the Band of Heathens, Wade Bowen, Randy Rogers, Robert Earl Keen
Continental Club: Gallery: Jimmie Vaughan, In the Club: LeRoi Brothers, Jade Idol, T Bird & the Breaks
Elephant Room: Ephraim Ownes
Emo's: Darren Hoff & the Hard Times, the Beaumonts, Scott H Biram
Flamingo Cantina: Reggae Bash w/ Dr Dubbist, Mau Mau Chaplains, Grimy Styles
Greune Hall: The Belleville Outfit (1pm); Clay McClinton & Delbert McClinton (8pm)
Hole in the Wall: Soul Track Mind, PJ & the Bear, Lost Soul Review
The Independent @ 501 Studios: YMCA Benefit w/ The Gourds
Mohawk: Peligrosa, Brownout, Grupo Fantasma
Momo's: Warren Hood & the Hoodlums, the Belleville Outfit
Palmer Events Center: Duke Ellington Orchestra, Austin Symphony Orchestra
The Parish: Markus with a K, Prepmode, White White Lights, Missions, Zeale
Saxon Pub: Sideshow Tragedy, Guy Forsyth
Seaholm Power Plant: Matt Shiv, Car Stereo (Wars), Flosstradamus
Stubb's: Proof Afrobeat, Black Joe Lewis & the Honeybears
TX Federation of Women's Clubs: Blues Ball w/ Little Elmore Reed, Leeann Atherton
Friday, January 1st:
Antone's: Lou Ann Barton, Pinetop Perkins
Hanover's: the Weathermen
Saxon Pub: Earl Poole Ball & the Cosmic Americans
Saturday, January 2nd:
Antone's: Marcia Ball
Central Market North: Dan Dyer
Club de Ville: Free Week w/ Blase Faire, the Tunnels, the Happen-Ins
Mohawk: Free Week, Outside: Eagle Claw, Vinhomudeh, Lions; Inside: December Boys, PJ & the Bear, In Dudero
Sunday, January 3rd:
Lamberts: Black Red & Black
Stay tuned for TraceInvader favorites of 2009...
Monday, December 28th:
Antone's: The Happen-Ins, Sideshow Tramps, Hayes Carll
Club 1808: Hotel Hotel, Bryce Eiman, Andrew Weathers
Frank Erwin Center: Trans-Siberian Orchestra
The Ghost Room: Paul Green School of Rock Music, Red Corner Rhymers
Momo's: Rebecca Pronsky, Beckham Bros., Dustin Welch, Brandon Jenkins, Rich O'Toole
Paramount: Woody Allen & His New Orleans Jazz Band
Saxon Pub: Matt the Electrician, Bob Schneider, Jeff Plankenhorn
Tuesday, December 29th:
Continental Club: Gallery: Ephraim Owens Experience; In the Club: Toni Price (6:30), Alejandro Escovedo, the Frank Mustard Project
Elephant Room: Brannen Temple Quartet
Emo's: Go Action Team, Fit for Rivals, Red Jumpsuit Apparatus
Momo's: World Music Night w/ Naga Valli, the Batikum, Austin Piazzolla Quintet
Wednesday, December 30th:
Antone's: the Scabs
Continental Club: Lisa Marshall, Jon Dee Graham, James McMurtry
Gruene Hall: the Trishes, Band of Heathens
Momo's: Kacy Crowley, Greg Schroeder, Drew Smith, Jessi Torissi, Deadman, Suzanna Choffel
Palmer Events Center: Duke Ellington Orchestra, Austin Symphony Orchestra
Saxon Pub: Monte Montgomery, Carolyn Wonderland
Thursday, December 31st:
Antone's: Dale Watson, Joe Ely & the Reunion Band
Austin Music Hall: the Band of Heathens, Wade Bowen, Randy Rogers, Robert Earl Keen
Continental Club: Gallery: Jimmie Vaughan, In the Club: LeRoi Brothers, Jade Idol, T Bird & the Breaks
Elephant Room: Ephraim Ownes
Emo's: Darren Hoff & the Hard Times, the Beaumonts, Scott H Biram
Flamingo Cantina: Reggae Bash w/ Dr Dubbist, Mau Mau Chaplains, Grimy Styles
Greune Hall: The Belleville Outfit (1pm); Clay McClinton & Delbert McClinton (8pm)
Hole in the Wall: Soul Track Mind, PJ & the Bear, Lost Soul Review
The Independent @ 501 Studios: YMCA Benefit w/ The Gourds
Mohawk: Peligrosa, Brownout, Grupo Fantasma
Momo's: Warren Hood & the Hoodlums, the Belleville Outfit
Palmer Events Center: Duke Ellington Orchestra, Austin Symphony Orchestra
The Parish: Markus with a K, Prepmode, White White Lights, Missions, Zeale
Saxon Pub: Sideshow Tragedy, Guy Forsyth
Seaholm Power Plant: Matt Shiv, Car Stereo (Wars), Flosstradamus
Stubb's: Proof Afrobeat, Black Joe Lewis & the Honeybears
TX Federation of Women's Clubs: Blues Ball w/ Little Elmore Reed, Leeann Atherton
Friday, January 1st:
Antone's: Lou Ann Barton, Pinetop Perkins
Hanover's: the Weathermen
Saxon Pub: Earl Poole Ball & the Cosmic Americans
Saturday, January 2nd:
Antone's: Marcia Ball
Central Market North: Dan Dyer
Club de Ville: Free Week w/ Blase Faire, the Tunnels, the Happen-Ins
Mohawk: Free Week, Outside: Eagle Claw, Vinhomudeh, Lions; Inside: December Boys, PJ & the Bear, In Dudero
Sunday, January 3rd:
Lamberts: Black Red & Black
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