Howdy weekend, Austin! Another week closer to the big festival. And while illness fears are very real, I’d be remiss if I didn’t recommend some rad local shows coming up. This weekend, we recommend an underground band showcase, ’80s-era synth-pop, and mellow, harmony-driven indie rock. Be safe, wash your hands thoroughly, and listen local!
Friday, March 6
KOOP Pre-SXSW Showcase w/ 2069, Exercise, Turning Gate, Samson
@ Scholz Garten (1607 San Jacinto) – 8:30 p.m. – Facebook event
Our pals at KOOP love giving Austin newbies a chance to shine on the airwaves. This Friday, the radio station will be doing the same on a big stage. 2069’s varied psych/rock sound will get fans into a groovy mode, while Exercise’s post-punk fuzz and growl screams pure DIY.
The second half of the bill features the smooth, chilled out lo-fi rock of Samson and the live performance debut of Turning Gate. A band so elusive, there’s almost nothing online about them. The group must rock with KOOP behind it.
Discover the new, raw, and exciting this Friday at Scholz Garten.
Saturday, March 7
The Vapor Caves w/Lolita Lynne, Jane Claire, HYAH
@ The North Door (502 Brushy) – 9 p.m. – Tickets
Velvet smooth synth pop with a delicious ’80s sheen, The Vapor Caves creates dance party jams thick with meaningful lyrics. “Feel Yourself” takes a stunning hook, lays it atop a head-bobbing beat, and peppers it with talk box synth, and electronic bits and beeps.
In contrast, “Endless Summer” evokes images of sun-soaked street and poolside hangouts in an “Electric Relaxation”-inspired groove. A fantastic band that’ll turn your hustle and bustle Saturday into a mellow Saturday night.
Hey Cowboy! w/ Foxtales, Spirit Ghost
@ Stay Gold (1910 Cesar Chavez) – 9 p.m. – Facebook event
Maybe it’s my primal need for rest and good vibes before SXSW attacks, but I’m super digging the lo key indie rock sound of Hey Cowboy!. The band’s sophomore record, “Get In My Fanny Pack and Let’s Go,” is a candy dish of thumping bass lines, tight harmonies, and lighter-than-air melodies.
“Detective Farmer Brown” drives on a funky bass groove among butterfly vocals, while “Cherry Jerry Citrus” shimmers and shines across a simple yet effective back beat. Adore this record; adore this band.
@BillTuckerTSP wants to know:
Where are you going for live, local music this weekend in Austin?
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