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The holiday season is in full swing. With the city focused on shopping, traffic, and swarming Trail of Lights, there doesn’t seem to be much time for live music. I’m here to say: make time–because our fair city is still cranking out excellent shows. For this weekend, we recommend eclectic indie rock, life-affirming ’70s pop, and Latin jazz so hot that you’ll need flame retardant pants to survive the show. Enjoy the holiday season and–as always–listen local! [Read more…]
Sixteen bands performed on the iconic Paramount Theatre stage Saturday night, as Austin nonprofit Black Fret awarded $230,000 in grants to 19 local bands at its annual Black Ball. For all the gowns and tuxedos in the audience, the atmosphere was informal and upbeat. Excited whoops and friendly heckling were directed towards the stage, and the few technical delays were shrugged off with a sense of humor.
We were there to celebrate. The first award winner of the night, Jackie Venson, told attendees she wasn’t going anywhere because of Austin’s vibrant support system for musicians. “There’s no HAAM in New York. There’s no SIMS [Foundation] in Chicago.”
With a fair amount of negativity directed towards Austin’s growth and subsequent affordability issues, one might assume the ecosystem for musicians is in decline. While we have work to do as a city, Black Ball showcased a vibrant community of musicians being propelled toward success through Black Fret grants. [Read more…]
CAPYAC live at The Parish (Credit: Katie McDowell Photography)
It was love at first listen. On a random Thursday during SXSW 2016, I found myself in front of the outdoor stage at Empire Control Room. With time to kill between Gina Chavez at Sidewinder and Akina Adderley two hours later, I thought I’d a burn a few minutes with CAPYAC. The band had buzz around town, but I’d never heard a note. Just another one of my random SX walk-in-and-listens.
I never made it to Akina Adderley. By the time the members of CAPYAC finished a blistering, soul-shaking set, they had a new fan. Combining electronic techno, disco guitar licks, and groove strong enough to make mountain ranges shimmy, this dynamic twosome is the most fun you can have in the Austin music scene. [Read more…]
Growing up, I went through a phase when I was eating up all the information I could about magic tricks and illusions. While I become a world-famous illusionist (which is what I wanted to be), I still take delight in anything that promises to add a bit of magic, literally, into my life.
Luckily, there are several locations locally that provide thrilling experiences in the art of illusion. You don’t even need to say “abracadabra!” to take a look at the magical side of Austin. [Read more…]
You’ve slept off a four-day weekend, worked/shopped on Cyber Monday, and tossed out the final few containers of Thanksgiving leftovers. Time for a new month and a new weekend of freshly-chopped live music! This time around, we recommend classic Austin indie, a 20-year veteran of the local singer/songwriter scene, and the best party this side of Daft Punk. Dive headlong into the weekend and–as always–listen local. [Read more…]
Temperatures may be mild outside, but holiday music is starting to play on local radio stations. And in just a few short days, Austin’s very own Trail of Lights will open for another glorious season. So, while it may not feel like it, it’s beginning to look a lot like Christmas in ATX.
Unfortunately, along with this most wonderful time of the year comes added stress. Instead of letting crowded shopping malls and heavier traffic get you down, head outside for some holiday cheer.
Scattered across the great state of Texas are more than 90 state parks, 19 of which are relatively close to Austin. To help you steer clear of the crowds and spend more time with loved ones, we’ve rounded up six state parks near Austin that are featuring holiday festivities in 2017. [Read more…]
After a quick break, our Weekly Concert Picks series is back with a furious vengeance. This time around, we recommend classic soul, a Beatles-esqe ’60s pop act, and an Americana band’s long-anticipated album release. Enjoy the weekend and–as always–listen local! [Read more…]
BATS members with Austin Symphony Orchestra Music Director and Conductor Peter Bay
Austin has one of the oldest orchestras in the state of Texas, but the Austin Symphony is lesser known in comparison to other music options here in the Live Music Capital of the World. Austin Symphony Orchestra provides a stunning season every year with talented guest musicians, moving classical pieces, and a fun Pop Series that nurtures a healthy sense of nostalgia.
In my opinion, the best way to get in on the fun is to join Austin Symphony BATS. Symphony BATS is the orchestra’s personal fan club. As such, members get a behind-the-scenes look, while celebrating their love for music with special social events and parties. [Read more…]
Trail of Lights is an Austin tradition, marking 52 years this Christmas season (Credit: Trail of Lights)
➡️ Get our 2018 guide to Trail of Lights in Austin
The first time I visited Trail of Lights, I was mesmerized by the beauty of it all, especially the tunnel at the entrance. I spun around inside the Zilker Tree until I was dizzy, and fell even more in love with the Austin skyline. This holiday magic is something I want to experience every year.
Visiting Trail of Lights is a yearly tradition for most Austin residents. If you’ve never been before, watch the short video below for more information on this year’s event, which will run from Dec. 9 to Dec. 23. And keep reading for this year’s pro tips!
Juicy brisket from Micklethwait Craft Meats at Texas Monthly BBQ Fest 2017
Getting out of my Uber in front of the Long Center last Sunday and seeing the crowds gathering to eat some of the best barbecue in Texas gave me a slight feeling of overwhelm. The 8th annual Texas Monthly BBQ Fest was the biggest one yet, with over 4,000 meat lovers in attendance.
Thirty BBQ joints from around the state–all featured in Texas Monthly’s latest list of the top 50 BBQ joints in Texas–were offering samples of their meat. The prospect of having all-you-can-eat brisket, ribs, and sausage from the best pitmasters was both exciting and intimidating. Especially when I realized I only had four hours to try them all! [Read more…]