Live Music Picks for the Overwhelmed in Austin

Fellow Austinites, you already know that we’re fortunate to have quality live music surround us on a daily basis because we live in this beautiful city. Sometimes there is so much of it that we don’t know where to start. Isn’t that amazing? TOO MUCH good music. I take this for granted time and again, but I always circle back to appreciating the unbelievably talented music scene Austin has to offer.

Below are a few of my favorite local music picks that won’t let you down.

Elijah Ford & the Bloom

After leaving Ryan Bingham & the Dead Horses, Elijah Ford went the solo route and has been serenading the city with his own brand of rock and roll for the last couple of years. As the son of former Black Crowes guitar virtuoso Marc Ford, Elijah’s no stranger to the music industry.

Through his experiences, he’s been able to craft a unique style completely his own. His songwriting is wonderfully melodic and the Bloom puts on a great live show. They love to mingle with the home crowd. So when they’re not touring, you’ll have plenty of opportunities to catch them at your local venues.

Check out their music and show schedule, and this music video:

Marmalakes

Marmalakes makes their beautiful folk pop melodies come to life at their live shows and has played with the likes of local favorites Shakey Graves and Wild Child, as well as national favorites Portugal the Man and Shearwater.

I first met lead singer, Chase Weinacht, at an open mic years ago, and playing solo he reminded me of a very young, energetic Bob Dylan. What he brings to Marmalakes is a far different sound, but just as good. You’ll leave their shows smiling and exhausted from how much you’ve been moving around.

Check out their music and this music video example:

The Human Circuit

If you’re looking for more of an experimental, psychedelic pop sound, then go see The Human Circuit live. Originally formed in 2008, they reestablished themselves in Austin a few years ago by bringing on additional local talent. They’ve been playing at local music havens ever since.

Their songs are very layered and harmoniously combine everything from synthesizers to trumpets to cellos. They’re an intriguing band and definitely one to keep your eye on.

Check out their music.

Matt the Electrician

If you’ve been in Austin for any extended period, you’ve probably heard of Matt the Electrician. How can you go wrong with Matt? I can’t help but smile when I listen to his songs. His name hails from the profession he left behind to pursue music, and we’re all glad he did. His heartfelt, folksy songwriting is made up of one wonderful story after another. Whenever I feel overwhelmed by the amount of talent and shows to see here in Austin, he’s my go-to.

Listen to his music and this music video:

 

If you’re new to Austin’s live music scene and finding it a challenge to pick from names of bands you’ve never heard of, these are my top picks. Try them out and let me know what you think!

 

@mattchampionatx asks:

Who are your favorite homegrown musicians from Austin?

 

Cover photo via Flickr CC, courtesy of Ramon Medina.