Another weekend, another heaping helping of live, local Austin music. This weekend through The Austinot Weekend Concert Picks, we recommend a multi-faceted rock band, indie soundscapes, and a 20-year-old country gal waiting to break out. As always, enjoy the weekend, enjoy the music, and listen local.
Friday, Feb. 23
Palo Duro (Credit: Keith Davis Young)
Palo Duro, Bee Caves, Young Tongue, Palm Daze
@ Cheer Up Charlies (900 Red River St.) – 9 p.m. – $3
An ear-tickling blend of soul, blues, and indie rock, Palo Duro is making an indelible mark on the Austin music scene. The sound is all over the place, but it pulls together through a united theme of groovy rhythm, humming synth, and Michael J. Winningham’s whispery, emotional vocals. A band worthy of your time, attention, and repeated listens. Also playing is Bee Caves, indie pop act Young Tongue, and Palm Daze.
Saturday, Feb. 24
Mamahawk (Credit: Patrick Hagenow)
Mamahawk single release w/Oh My Love, House Quiet, Emme
@ Swan Dive (615 Red River St.) – 9:30 p.m. doors – $5
With lush, living soundscapes punctuated by electronic backbeats and soaring melodies, Mamahawk creates landscapes one layer at a time. From the delicately intense “Sidewinder” to the take-flight-and-escape vibe of “Reset,” not a single Mamahawk tune feels repetitive or stale. The way the group balances dozens of sparse elements to create an enveloping sound is remarkable. While details on the upcoming single are scarce, expect your soul to be stirred and your heart taken to places far, far away.
Also playing are electro-pop trio Oh My Love, House Quiet, and electronic alternative act Emme.
Bethany Becker
Bethany Becker (Credit: Paris Nicole Photography)
@ backYARD at Waller Creek (701 E. 11th St.) – 7 p.m.
Ever since Taylor Swift picked up a guitar and took over the world, country pop became a staple of modern music. It’s also a touch stale. That’s where 20-year-old phenom Bethany Becker breaks the mold. The hallmark of her sound is sincerity through sweet innocence, wrapped in a self-awareness rare for her age. She also has pipes for days, and the simple yet effective songs of young love and self-discovery to back it up. Fairly certain we’ll be hearing more of Bethany Becker in the months and years ahead.
@BillTuckerTSP wants to know:
What local show are you looking forward to most in Austin this weekend?