The weekend is coming, faithful readers! And don’t look now, but SXSW is less than a month away. Before the city is dominated by showcases, badge-toting tourists, and more product placement than the Super Bowl, let’s dig some live music. This weekend, we recommend an exceptional rock guitarist, fascinating funk/groove music, and down-home outlaw country. Listen local, friends!
Friday, Feb. 15
Emily Wolfe (Credit: KUTX)
Emily Wolfe album release w/Wild Moccasins, Think No Think
@ Mohawk (inside) – 912 Red River – Tickets
By distilling classic southern rock guitar fuzz and rhythms through a smokey, emotional alto, Emily Wolfe continues her rock-and-roll journey with a new self-titled record. In the lead single from the album, “Rules to Bend,” Wolfe coos above a brooding scrawl of thick bass lines and her signature guitar wizardry.
One of my highlights of last year’s SXSW, Emily Wolfe is a musical force of nature who’s a treat to see live. Make this record celebration a reason to do so.
Saturday, Feb. 16
Mamahawk (Credit: Patrick Hagenow)
Mamahawk vinyl release w/ Shy Beast, Torre Blake
@ Empire Control Room (606 E. 7th St.) – 9 p.m. – Tickets
Celebrate the release of Mamahawk’s brand new album, “Brain Invaderz.” On the record, the Austin band continues to expand its sound into magical untold realms. Singles like the glorious key-tickling funk jam “Lioness,” synth-laden “Moonride,” and the title track became instant fan favorites upon release.
But the new songs are no slouches. My favorite of these tracks is “A Lovely Town.” It’s a roller coaster ride of shifting dynamics, heady vamps, and blood-pumping rhythm of exquisite design. The track encapsulates everything I love about this unique Austin original.
Also playing are funk/pop pros Shy Beast and R&B songtress Torre Blake.
Mike & the Moonpies w/A. Sinclair
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@ Hotel Vegas (1502 E. 6th St.) – 9 p.m. – Facebook event
There’s something warm and comforting about good, old outlaw country. Whether it’s the down and dirty storytelling of bar tops, pool halls, and long lost loves, or the familiar boot-stompin’ rhythm, I’m always down for a well-played steel guitar coupled with a hearty twang. Mike & the Moonpies tick all those boxes. From the group’s upbeat yet personal “Mockingbird” to the time-worn story of last chance poker hands and missed opportunities told in “Beaches in Biloxi,” the Moonpies are the real deal.
@BillTuckerTSP wants to know:
Where will you be going for live music in Austin this weekend?
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