Happy awesome August, lovely Austin! While the sweltering heat may feel less than exceptional, there’s an entire city of killer music to explore, heat or no heat. This weekend, we recommend an ATX guitar goddess, music benefit for a worthy cause, and the finest beer and brats bash of the year. Enjoy the weekend and always listen local!
Friday, Aug. 2
Jackie Venson w/Alesia Lani, Matt Giles Band
@ One-2-One Bar (1509 S. Lamar Blvd.) – 8:30 p.m. – Tickets
If you’ve spent any time following this article series over the past few years, then you know I like variety. Presenting old favorites and little-known up and coming artists to Austin’s listening public is what I love to do. But sometimes, you have to give props to a performer regardless of how much you crow about them.
The incredibly Jackie Venson is one of those musicians. A guitarist of skill, emotion, and passion, Venson is officially a member of the ATX music elite. This coming Friday, she takes the One-2-One stage for the official Austin stop on her current tour in support of her latest record, “Joy.”
I’ve already burned a good deal of virtual ink praising her bold new direction, but if you haven’t heard the uplifting, ’80s hip-hop spiked title track yet, then you’re missing out on the best part of your day. Make it a point to check out this electric performer live and in person.
Saturday, Aug. 3
Niñas Arriba Benefit w/Gina Chavez, The Wind and the Wave, Shy Beast
@ Antone’s Nightclub (305 E 5th St.) – 7 p.m. – Tickets
Whenever you can listen to great music and contribute to a worthy cause at the same time, it’s a special way to spend a Saturday night. Gina Chavez’s annual Niñas Arribas benefit concert is no exception. Co-founded by Chavez and her wife, Niñas Arribas funds college education for impoverished girls living in the rough neighborhoods of El Salvador.
Having her back for this lovely night of music are roots rock duo The Wind and the Wave and Austinot rock/pop favorite Shy Beast. And, of course, you get the sensational Latin sounds of Gina Chavez. Expect a wonderful night of giving, sharing, and singing.
➡️ Keep reading: Gina Chavez Leans Into Songwriting With First Album Release Since 2014
Banger’s 7th Anniversary Party w/Stone House, The Pearl Snaps, Devin Jake, Teddy, Lost Pines, Sour Bridges, Ben Balmer
@ Bangers (79 Rainey St.) – 11 a.m. – Facebook event page
At the risk of aging myself, I remember when Banger’s was a cool little jewel of a sausage joint in the midst of a street full of dilapidated houses and laid-back bars. Now it’s a 200-tap multiplex of smoked meat goodness and high flying good times. My, how the times have changed.
But the core of Banger’s never wavered in the swirl of progress. All of this comes to a head during its yearly anniversary party. Not only will a gob-smacking beer list and seductively savory menu be on offer, but a fantastic day of live music awaits, as well.
Roots country, Americana, and bluegrass are the order of the day thanks to acts like Austin original blues man Stone House, singer/songwriter Teddy Long, and the incomparable bluegrass stomp of Sour Bridges. Fine food, fun times, brilliant Saturday.
@BillTuckerTSP wants to know:
What local music are you planning to catch this weekend in Austin?
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