Feel that wave of stifling heat? Austin’s summer sweat has arrived, weeks ahead of schedule. Luckily, the evenings are still bearable, so take the opportunity to check out some live, local music this weekend. We recommend trippy, ’70s-era headspace rock, an incredible one-man band’s record release, and a legendary group celebrating a brand new collection of covers. Enjoy the weekend, Austin. Listen local!
Friday, June 1
The Halfways w/TC Superstar, Wonderbitch, Rust Never Sleeps
@ Hotel Vegas (1502 E. 6th St.) – 9 p.m. to 2 a.m. – Facebook event
With trippy soundscapes in the vein of Fleet Foxes and Iron and Wine, The Halfways are a mind-expanding way to spend a summer evening. Tunes like “All You Can Do Is Something About It” floats with oft-kilter time signatures and dreamy ’70s guitar and vocals, while the subtle groove of “I Don’t Know How to Say No” gives lead vocalist Daniel Fernandez’s breathy tenor space to soar. Familiar while remaining unique, The Halfways is a band of range and vision.
Also playing: synthwave act TC Superstar, disco-pop band Wonderbitch, and Rust Never Sleeps.
Saturday, June 2
Mobley record release party w/Alesia Lani, Mamahawk
Mobley at SXSW 2018 (Credit: Bill Tucker)
@ Mohawk Inside (912 Red River St.) – 8 p.m. to 12 a.m. – Tickets
After years of shows, singles, and wowing Austin with his gourmet brand of soulful, one-man pop, Mobley is ready to celebrate the release of his latest full-length record, “Fresh Lies, Vol 1.” But try not to call it an album. According to Mobley, the release is the first of what may be a career-long exploration of his place as an African American in today’s society.
The result is a collection of old classics like “Torch” and “Swoon,” along with newly-recorded gems like the infectious head-bobber “Young Adult Fiction.” Add to the equation a can’t-miss live experience and consider your Saturday night planned.
Also playing: local soul songstress Alesia Lani and alterna-pop rockstars Mamahawk (click the link for the group’s incredible new single/video).
Brownout album release w/Third Root, Superfonicos
@ Mohawk Outside (912 Red River St.) – 8 p.m. to 12 a.m. – Tickets
Following in the footsteps of their series of incredible Black Sabbath tribute records, Brownout is back in action with “Fear of a Brown Planet,” paying homage to the work of Public Enemy. While you wouldn’t think the band’s Latin-rock groove would fit with the likes of Chuck D rhymes and DJ Lord production, covers like an instrumental take on “Fight the Power” will instantly change your mind.
In fact, every tune on the record is covered sans vocals. Rather than try to match Public Enemy’s trademark flow, Brownout did what it does best: let slick groove, tight horns, and a heavy helping of Latin percussion tell the story. Another impressive release by an award-winning ensemble.
Also playing are the MCs of Third Root and Latin funk band Superfonicos.
@BillTuckerTSP wants to know:
Where are you going for live, local music this weekend in Austin?
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