The Austinot Weekend Concert Picks: December 20-22, 2019

Don’t look now, friends. Christmas is right around the corner! If you’re done with shopping (or even if you’re not), there’s a full slate of standout live music to dig this weekend. This time around, we recommend upbeat synth-pop, a soulful crooner, and music at Austin’s favorite holiday shopping experience.

I’ll be taking next week off, so Happy Holidays; enjoy the weekend; and listen local!

Friday, Dec. 20

Goons w/Kady Rain, Flavor Raid

Empire Control Room & Garage (606 E. 7th) – 8 p.m. – Facebook event

When Kady Rain graciously gave the opening song of her ACL Fest 2019 set to Goons, I didn’t know what to expect. Within 30 seconds, I was dancing in my spot. With silky synth-pop wrapped in tight bass grooves and punchy, catchy lyrics, Goons forges fun new paths in the Austin music scene.

The group’s latest video and single, “Take All My Money,” is a joy. A euphoric ode to senseless, new love, the track builds from bubbly anticipation to sexy guitar solo, to massive sing-along in the span of three minutes. And the balance of the first LP, “The Year of the Goon,” offers the sort of glossy, perma-shine pop that brightens days and summons sunshine. Make a point to check out this up-and-coming trio and prepare to smile.

Also on the bill is the ever-fabulous Kady Rain and electro-dance act Flavor Raid.

Saturday, Dec. 21

Motown Christmas w/Tje Austin & Friends

Geraldine’s (605 Davis) – 10 p.m. – Event page

A recent recipient of a 2019 Black Fret grant, Tje Austin’s been crooning his way through the local music scene for years. With a honey-soaked voice and chops to match, Austin’s beautiful blend of soul, rock, and folk have taken him from ATX stages to season one of “The Voice,” and everywhere in between.

This weekend’s Saturday extravaganza is labeled “Motown Christmas,” which hopefully means Tje and a team of surprise musical cohorts will be performing holiday classics along with his already stellar catalog. Celebrate the season in style at the fantastic Geraldine’s!

Sunday, Dec. 22

Wood & Wire (12 p.m.), Brothers of the Castle (3 p.m.), Sir Woman (7 p.m.) @ Armadillo Christmas Bazaar

@ Palmer Events Center (900 Barton Springs) – 12-7 p.m. – Event page

With Christmas mere days away, your chances to shop are rapidly dwindling. Why not attend one of Austin’s finest experiences, the Armadillo Christmas Bazaar? Not only will you shop a killer lineup of local artisans, designers, and creators, but rad music will be filling the air!

With Grammy-nominated bluegrass specialists Wood & Wire opening at noon, Latin rocking Brothers of the Castle will keep the fun going with a special holiday-themed performance. And at 7 p.m., Kelsey Wilson and Sir Woman will close the evening with their wonderful brand of soulful pop. Shop, dance, and groove as you finish your holiday giving.

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@BillTuckerTSP wants to know:

Where are you going for live, local music this weekend in Austin?