Howdy, awesome music lovers! ACL Fest 2019 is officially in the rear view. While I’m still recovering from a weekend of listening, posting, and running from stage to stage, I have just enough in me to recommend some rad music for this this weekend.
This time around, we showcase my favorite local shoegaze band, a world/folk duo, and traditional ska/reggae plucked straight from the soul of Jamaica. Listen local, friends!
Friday, Oct. 18
Hovvdy album release w/Caroline Says
@ Barracuda (611 E. 7th) – 8 p.m. – Tickets
One of my biggest discoveries from last year, Hovvdy’s sensitive, stripped down shoegaze captured my heart. Tunes like the gloriously minimal “Cranberry” and the early Death Cab gloom pop bump of “Pretend” are classics.
On Friday, the duo will release its third full-length record, “Heavy Lifter,” with a corresponding show at Barracuda. Four songs off the album are currently available, and all of them either hearken to the past or blaze brave new directions.
“So Brite” follows in the mellow folk pop footsteps of Hovvdy’s previous work, while “Mr. Lee” swings and bounces like a TC Superstar tune, complete with touching slice of life lyrics.
My demands are simple: buy this record; go to this show; and fall in love with one of my favorite local bands.
Beat Root Revival album release w/Pat Byrne and Alice Spencer
@ The 04 Center (2701 S. Lamar Blvd.) – 7 p.m. – Tickets
On a random weekday during SXSW 2019, I walked onto the porch of Craft Pride, snagged a pint, and caught my first glimpse of Beat Root Revival. With two vocals, one guitar, and a collection of ear-tingling instruments (including a tin whistle and a bodhran), the duo blew me off the porch.
Fast forward six months, and this talented pair is taking their world music folk sound to a new record and direction. Although I haven’t had a chance to get my hands on the album, if it’s anything like Beat Root Revival’s previous work, expect a stirring collection of invigorating, harmony-driven folk peppered with sounds from around the world.
And while I rarely mention covers in this article series, the rendition of “Dreams” slaps. Two dynamic performers worth your time, attention, and patronage.
Saturday, Oct. 19
Micah Shalom & The Babylonians
@ Live at The Grove at Southpark Meadows – 7 p.m. – Facebook event
As a 20-year veteran of ska/reggae/dancehall/etc., I have discerning taste in the genre. Good news. Micah Shalom & The Babylonians are the real deal. Far from the cod reggae found on Caribbean cruise liners, Micah Shalom’s brand of Jamaican-drenched music takes a stand against the man while inspiring dance circles at the same time.
His brand new single, “Peace, Rights, Love,” calls for justice in a world starving for it through mellow, echo heavy keys, and Micah’s authentic, island-swept vocals. Whether you’re a newbie to the style or an OG rude boy, you won’t find a more laid-back vibe in Austin this weekend.
@BillTuckerTSP wants to know:
Where are you going for live, local music in Austin this weekend?
We always have unique content on the Austinot and we love to give things away. You know, like event tickets, gift certificates, and other cool stuff. We only send out our “Best of the Austinot” newsletter two times/month. It’s where we give you a recap of our best articles and give stuff away. Interested? Subscribe to Best of the Austinot here!
