Break out your American flag tank tops and light those sparklers, regular readers. Memorial Day weekend is upon us, and with it comes some fantastic local music. This weekend, we recommend slick ’80s synth, trippy psych rock, and a throwback to the world lo-fi ’80s post punk (now that’s a mouthful). Enjoy the music, enjoy your three-day weekend, and listen local!
Friday, May 25
Alex Dugan of Culture Wars performs at The Parish during SXSW 2018 (Credit: Bill Tucker)
Culture Wars w/Marmalakes
@ Stubb’s (801 Red River St.) – 9 p.m. to 12 a.m. – Tickets
Winner of my illustrious (kinda) “Most Theatrical” award from SXSW 2018, Culture Wars brings its signature brand of sexy, silky, ’80s goth synth to the Stubb’s stage. Adept at turning small stages into blinding amphitheaters of sound and lights, these ATX New Wavers continue the fine tradition laid down by Night Drive and S.U.R.V.I.V.E. A thrilling evening of music. Also playing: the folk rock troubadours of Marmalakes.
Saturday, May 26
Credit: Name Sayers
Name Sayers album release w/Feverbones, Brickwaller, Flying Turns
@ Cheer Up Charlies (900 Red River St.) – 9 p.m. to 2 a.m. – Facebook event
Rich and groovy with layers upon layers of trippy, gothic move and groove, Name Sayers celebrates its new album “Mantles” this weekend at Cheer Up Charlies. The lead single on the new record, “New Moon,” creeps and slithers, with shimmering guitars and spacey instrumental breakdowns buoyed by haunting vocals. Required listening for fans of The Black Angels, Roxy Erickson, and anything trippy. Also playing: indie pop act Feverbones, the electronic pop sound of Brickwallers, and DJ crew Flying Turns.
Sunday, May 27
The Savage Poor (Credit: Wyatt McSpadden)
The Savage Poor
@ One-2-One Bar (1509 S. Lamar Blvd.) – 9 p.m.
Rambling, shambling ’80s indie with a post-punk edge, The Savage Poor takes the energy of lo-fi fuzz and elevates it to top tier status. Tunes like “Together in the Jungle” play like early E Street Band Springsteen, while the over eight minute “Hand Coming Down” floats and creeps with brooding danger reminiscent of The Doors. An exceptional band at an exceptional local venue.
@theAustinot wants to know:
Where will you be catching local music in Austin this weekend?
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