Less than two weeks until Christmas. If that sentence fills you with anxious thoughts of Lakeline Mall, 360 traffic, and stockings left unfilled, then chill this weekend with live music. This time around, we recommend a fun-filled supergroup, more Sabrina Ellis than you can handle, and a guitar queen’s celebration show. Relax, enjoy the holidays, and always listen local!
Friday, Dec. 14
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Glorietta, Texas Gentlemen
@ The Scoot Inn (1308 E. 4th) – 8 p.m. – Tickets
A super-group of of Austin’s finest folk, Latin, and pop musicians, Glorietta’s eclectic sound is a real treat. Joined together by legendary songwriters Matthew Logan Vasquez (Delta Spirit, Middle Brother) and Adrian Quesasa (Brownout, Black Pumas), the six-piece has created a loose yet cohesive set of rootsy rock and county/folk jams.
On “Sinking Ship,” vocalist Kelsey Wilson (Wild Child) coos chilling lyrics above tight guitar plucks and subtle railroad drum beats. “I Know,” on the other hand, grits its teeth in a meandering, boozy Southern funk/rock stunner, complete with tight guitars, large harmonies, and a searing punk rock finish.
Seeing an all-star class of local talent having a blast should be reason enough to swing by The Scoot Inn for some Friday night fun. Also playing is country/blues act The Texas Gentlemen.
Saturday, Dec. 15
Sabrina Ellis of Sweet Spirit (Credit: Bill Tucker)
Sweet Spirit w/TC Superstar and Ex Romantika
@ Barracuda (611 E. 7th) – 9 p.m. – Tickets
When you spout praise upon a band as much as I do for Sweet Spirit, the risk is to regurgitate the same copy and call it a day. Luckily, Sabrina Ellis and her band of merry misfits continues cranking out quality music.
The latest single “Touch” is salty political satire with fuzz guitar and blasting drums, while “Los Lonely Girls” tap dances along subtle R&B funk and a dreamy hook. Keep on being awesome, Sweet Spirit, and I’ll keep on spouting.
Also playing is moody pop act TC Superstar and funk/world/samba band Ex Romantika.
Sunday, Dec. 16
Jackie Venson performing at ACL Fest 2018 (Credit: Bill Tucker)
Jackie Venson
@ Antone’s (305 E 5th) – Doors 5 p.m., show 6:30 p.m. – Tickets
With respect to all of Austin’s guitar-shredding ladies, few have reached the height of chops and critical acclaim like Jackie Venson. Fresh off an incredible ACL Fest appearance and recent signing to Big Indie Records, Venson is set to celebrate her latest single “A Million Moments” at the label’s Big Indie Big Night showcase on Sunday.
Continuing her turn from the soul/R&B sound of her previous work, “A Million Moments” balances Venson’s deft guitar-picking with a bouncy, pop-laden back beat that’s pure sunshine and fluffy clouds. A celebration of love and life’s joyful moments, the tune is as uplifting as it is catchy. Do your fair share of celebrating during what’s sure to be an epic show.
@BillTuckerTSP wants to know:
Where are you going for live, local music this weekend in Austin?
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