The Austinot Weekend Concert Picks: September 1-3

With the tragedies surrounding our Texas neighbors, it may feel odd to strike out and enjoy live, local music. But we can actually take a breather while supporting those in need. This weekend, we present you with a benefit for the victims of Hurricane Harvey, a festival chock-full of Austin’s finest, and an exceptional county/funk artist. Stay strong, stay safe, and stay local.

Friday, September 1

Houston Strong benefit w/Black Joe Lewis, The Octopus Project, Robert Ellis, Walker Lukens, The Deer, and Otis the Destroyer

@ Mohawk (912 Red River St.) – 7 p.m. – Tickets

If this collection of incredible local talent isn’t reason enough to swing by Mohawk this weekend, then the awesome cause should seal the deal. All proceeds from the concert will go to the Hurricane Harvey Relief Fund via Greater Houston Community Foundation. And on the musical end, from Black Joe Lewis’ heart-stopping soul to Walker Lukens’ infectious brand of funky blues/rock, you’ll be well entertained as you help a city in need.

Saturday, September 2

Pennyfest

@ Empire Control Room & Garage (606 E. 7th St.) – 6:30 p.m. – Tickets

One of the most eclectic lineups you’ll see this weekend, Pennyfest promises an electric evening of standout music. The Austin artists playing are:

• Lincoln Durham – One-man show of boot-stomping, gritty Southern rock
• My Jerusalem – Brooding, expressive alt-rock
• Emily Wolfe – Eclectic mix of Southern rock-a-blues and quiet, introspective folk
• Emily Bell – Brash and vibrant rock-and-roll
• Darkbird – Theatric and atmospheric rock
• The Ghost Wolves – Ramones-style 80’s garage punk
• Otis the Destroyer – Tightly wound and harmony-focused psychedelic rock
• Slomo Drags – Indie rock with a pop edge
• Cari Q – Rhythmic mix of genres and styles, wrapped in a unique indie rock package
• MCG – Vibrant and well-crafted indie rock
• Chill Russell – Psychedelic indie rock
• Scott Collins – Folky singer/songwriter

Sunday, September 3

A post shared by Doug Strahan (@dougstrahan) on Jul 3, 2015 at 7:22pm PDT

Doug Strahan & The Good Neighbors

@ ABGB (1305 W. Oltorf St.) – 4 p.m. – Free

Close out the weekend with a sound that’s down home and danceable, all at the same time. Whether you consider the sound to be funk with a hint of honky tonk, or country laced with a heavy helping of Austin blues, there’s no denying Doug Strahan’s songwriting chops. Tunes like “Moving to the County” bounce with the energy of escaping bright city lights, while “I’ll Make It Rain’s” urgent and frantic pace makes it as unsettling as it is exciting. An awesome way to ease out of the weekend.

 

@BillTuckerTSP wants to know:

Which Austin bands are you checking out this weekend?